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HISTORY 



Military Canteen 



Lieut. -Col. PHILIP R^ADE 
Inspector General U. S. V. 

(Major 4th U. S. Infantrv) 



Published by authority of 

The Hon., The Secretary of War 



u 







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\K'- 



This is a piihUcatioii pcrinHicd by the Secrehiry of JJ'iir of reports 
made to the Inspector General of the Army, during the months of Sep- 
tember, October, and November, J goo, by Lieut. -Colon el Philip Reade, 
Jjispector General, U. S. V., ( Majof 4th U. S. Infantry), regarding the 
Regulation Canteen and other canteens presented for trial with refereftce 
to their ftness for use in the military service. 



AUG 18)908 



PRINTED BY 

C. J. BURROUGHS, 
Chicago. 



l!y PHILIP READE. 



REPORT UPON ARMY CANTEENS 



LIEUT. CUL. PHILIP' READE, I. G., U. S. V., 
(.MAJOR 4TH r. s. infantry) 

Inspector General, Department of Dakota. 

At the beginning of the last century, and for some years after., 
the soldier's canteen was a wooden, drum-shaped affair, provided 
with a nozzle. (See cut p. 120.) 

To now return to that shape and adopt a hollow cylinder, modeled 
after a drum for packing figs in, would be an advance backwards. 

The history of mankind is the history of the development of 
weapons and equipment for war by improvements, in which one 
nation has overcome another and survived. 

Within a few months from now our military organization will 
have been readjusted. The arms and equii)ments to be neces.^itated 
by the increase in numbers of our permanent military establishment 
should be new and not of the nineteenth century pattern. 

l>y July, 1901, perhaps 6o,cxDO canteens now carried by, or in the 
l)ossession of, United States Volunteers and Regulars will have been 
turned in. Some of these canteens will be suspended by the returned 
volunteers beside the obsolete muzzle-loading firearms of the civil war 
period, and some may find their way into the museums for the col- 
lection and display of archaic military weapons and equipments. 

Froni being an inconsequential article of a soldier's personal 
equipment the canteen has become, in fact, one of the most impor- 
tant articles, because connected with hygienic considerations ; in 
other words, because it carries water and because the majority of 
our troops are in localities where good water is of prime considera- 
tion to health. 

Those wdio live a comparatively fixed life can hardly weigh 
aright the importance of a good canteen. 

Since the microbe or germ theory has come into the discussion of 
hygienic conditions, wc have learned why it is that bad water is the 
most dangerous liquid one can drink ; that the denizen of places fitted 
with filtering devices, sterilizing appliances, faucets, hydrants, water 
valves, pipes, aqueducts, cooling refrigerators, icehouses, etc., can 

3 



4 lllSTORV OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

guard against inicro-urganisnis aiul temper the water to suit his 
palate; the soldier ean not so guard himself in the field or on cam- 
paign, or on the march. 

If the former could only get water hy journeying to the town 
pump, or well having a pole, or piece of timber, moved on a fulcrum 
or post, used to raise and lower a bucket in the well for laboriously 
drawing water by hand, he would feel it an annoying hardship. Wc 
have relegated the well-sweep, but hung on to the canteen of con- 
temporaneous antiquity. 

People who always live in houses and sleep in beds and walk on 
pavements and ride in street cars, and who get their food from butch- 
ers, bakers, grocers, or restaurants, and who always have access to 
unlimited quantities of good water, don't appreciate — they can't 
appreciate — water, because it is as free as air. 

The circumstances of their existence are too mathematical and 
secure. They are boarders in this world. Everything is done for 
them by somebody else. They live at second or third hand. They 
get their excitement out of the newspapers. If the weather is bad, 
they are snugly housed. If it is cold, there is a furnace in the cellar. 
If they are hungry, the shops are near at hand. They might as well 
be brought up in an incubator. 

r>ut where man abides in the fields, after the manner of soldiers 
in campaign, he learns that his best friends are his arms, his blanket, 
and his rations; the last nametl are not an\- more important than his 
filled canteen. 

Napoleon said: "There are five things from which the soldier 
must never be separated — his gun, his cartridges, his knapsack, his 
provisions for at least four days, and his pioneer tool. Let the knap- 
sack be reduced to the smallest size ; let him carry in it a shirt, a pair 
of shoes, a stock, a handkerchief, a tinder box, but let him have it 
always with him, for, once separated from him, it never returns." 

It is submitted that a man will retain things for the preservation 
of his own life longer than he will retain things for the taking of 
life. Hence he will hold on to his provisions longer than he will 
retain implements, such as his gun, cartridges, knapsack, pioneer 
tool, or even his "stock." In other w^ords, the soldier wall include 
his canteen as one of his best friends. He is never prodigal with his 
water when inured to war experiences. City dwellers who know 
that there is always plenty more in the pipes do not appreciate this 
last fact. 

A soldier in barracks, with water closets and baths, requires 25 
gallons of water per day. Without w^ater closets and baths he 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 




f\ktr£»fhni Mi 



./rfS-ffH ConnectiQut ^cvtfuari.n?6-tTS). l/lS/ftAftiry man i 

ftnrth'Kf orcUr, /OSi. 



6 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

requires lo gallons of water per day. In stationary camps. 5 gallons 
per head for all purposes is required. 

A soldier requires on the march, for drinking and cooking, 6 
pints a day, increased in a hot climate to 8 pints, and an equal amount 
for washing the person. 

The foregoing are the lowest figures. The hygienic preparations 
for a campaign, either for the foot or mounted soldier, include a con- 
sideration of many rules and precautions that are unavoidably broken 
or impaired by war, but the three requisites of a camping grounds 
are water, fuel and forage. 

Bad water is the most dangerous liquid one can drink. 
The soldier is not dressed or outfitted in obedience to caprices of 
fashion, but in accordance with the rules of hygiene. 

All camping grounds are not near to running streams, or water. 
Marches must be limited to the human strength and necessities, both 
as regards travel and rest, rations and water. 

During the period immediately following the capitulation of 
Santiago, July, 1898, the Fifth Army Corps obtained its water from 
the San Juan river, less than a mile away, by means of canteens. 
Stalwart, fever-stricken men went thirsty because they shrank from 
the physical exertion involved in walking down a hill a few hundred 
yards and then stagger back with a load of filled canteens. Aching 
heads and flushing faces were relieved by water, but the fluid appli-, 
cation was a costly one. 

Soldiers, insane from heat, exhaustion and fatigue, reeled into 
any kind of shelter and would there lie prostrate and gasp, their 
canteens by their side — empty. Sights like these, and personal 
deprivation, quicken one's conception and appreciation. 

General Viscount Wolseley in his "Soldier's Pocket liook for 
Field Service," edition 1886. includes in the list of articles to be worn 
on the person a drinking cup and water bottle. He says : "The best 
water bottles are those made of ebonite and covered with felt. Those 
holding a little less than i ys pints weigh, when empty, 13} otmces ; 
when full, 2 pounds 7,1 ounces. Our regulation water bottle, that is 
of wood, holds I and 1-3 pints; weighs when empty, t pound and 
i ounce; when full. 2 pounds 10 ounces. Leather water bottle 
used in Nile expedition, weighs 2 pounds. ^Moving across a desert, 
the first and greatest difficulty is water, ^'ou must provide for the 
carriage of at least i gallon per man per diem, with a surplus of 
spare water of 25 per cent, or whatever your calculation amounts to. 
In calculating the quantity of water required per man for drinking 
and cooking, it may be ])ut down as six pints in temperate, and eight 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 7 

pints ill tropical climates. On desert journeys in summer, when 
hot winds blow, a man requires two gallons a day, but in autumn 
or winter three pints a day are sufficient." 

At Tientsin, China, July 13, 1900, where Col. Emerson H. Lis- 
cum, ninth infantry, was killed, Lieutenant Abraham Loeb reports 
that the regiment lay all day in salt water, mud up to their waists, 
under a hot sun. "Water gave out," he states, "and the men in their 
frenzied attempts to quench their burning thirst, would drink that 
dirty salt water, supplying it in short mouthfuls, as it eddied about 
their forms." 

Regarding the lack of water at Tientsin, the New York Sun's 
correspondent reports : "One thing this day should teach the Ameri- 
can army, one little thing of great importance. I have seen six 
different breeds of man go into battle today. Every one of them 
except the American had some contrivance for getting extra water 
to the field. It has been a fearfully hot day and the men have suf- 
fered greatly for water. Our men are notoriously prodigal of the 
contents of their canteens. They hadn't been on the line two hours 
before they were running out, and the cry went up for more. But 
there was no way to get more. The British, French, and Japanese 
had their donkey carts or mules packed with breakers, but the 
Americans had nothing and their men had to suffer and stand it 
as best they could. It is no very great reform to make, but it counts 
afield." 

j\Iajor William D. Beach, Inspector General U. S. V., (Captain 
3d U. S. Cavalry), Inspector General Dept. of Southern Luzon, P. 
I., states that "officers and some old soldiers will make their can- 
teens of water last for twenty-four hours if necessary, or else go 
without ; but the average soldier can not be made to do it, and sick- 
ness results." 

It is an axiom in our service to never start on a march or field 
exercise without filling all canteens. Company commanders inspect 
before starting to see that this essential is complied with by all. 

The importance of the canteen as an article of the soldier's 
equipment in the field cannot be overestimated. Its value in garrison 
is not generally appreciated, because of the ease with which water 
can be obtained. 

A canteen is defined by Webster as being a vessel used by sol- 
diers for carrying liquors, water or other drink. 

In the English service the canteen has been made of wood and 
held three pints. In the L^nited States it is a tin flask. 

Col. H. L. Scott, in his Military Dictionary of 1864, defines a can- 



8 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

teen as a small tin, caoutchouc, or circular wooden vessel, used by 
soldiers to carry liquor, etc. 

Captain Thomas Wilhelm, in his Military Dictionary, 1881, says 
that a canteen is a tin vessel used by soldiers to carry water on the 
march, or in the field. It is usually suspended by a strap from the 
shoulder. In the British service the canteen, he says, is made of 
wood and is called a water bottle. 

Worcester in his dictionary defines the canteen as a small tin or 
circular wooden vessel which each soldier carries and uses for 
water. 

Chambers" Encyclopedia, edition of 1879, defines canteen as the 
name given to a vessel used by soldiers to contain whatever beverage 
may be obtainable on the march or in the field, made sometimes of 
tin, sometimes of wood. In the British army, the canteen is a 
wooden vessel holding about three pints, painted blue, and inscribed 
with the number, or designation of the regiment, battalion and com- 
pany to which the soldier belongs. 

The following are stated to be the specifications for the regula- 
tion U. S. Army canteen, viz. : 

Made of XXXX tin, circular in shape, 7f inches in diameter, sides 
oval and smooth ; thickness through, three inches, with a triangular 
wire loop T soldered on each side to tin loop ; mouthpiece with a 
rim ; cork capped with tin ; iron wire stem riveted through cork and 
attached to canteen by a brass chain three inches long, with a ring 
closed on mouthpiece. Covered first with gray "Petersham," and 
afterwards with drab duck. The weight of the complete canteen 
is 12.6 ounces; of the canteen haversack strap, as used by the in- 
fantry, 6.3 ounces, and of the cavalry canteen strap, 3 ounces. 

The Commandant, Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois, (Major S. E. 
Blunt, Ord. Dept.) furnishes the following information in regard 
to the manufacture of canteens at that arsenal : "The present regu- 
lation canteen is made up of sheet tin ; the two halves of the can- 
teen being formed under presses, soldered together and separate 
mouthpiece soldered thereto, the triangles for the strap soldered on, 
and then the canteen covered, first with felt and then with dyed 
duck of the same material as used for the haversack. After this 
the cork and chain are added. Inspections are made at each different 
stage of manufacture and when finally completed before the canteens 
are packed and transferred to store. The only 'test' made during 
manufacture is to determine whether the soldering is complete. This 
is accomplished by placing the nozzle of an air compresser into the 
mouth of the canteen, plunging the canteen under water, and then 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 9 

forcing air into it. If there are any leaks they will he discovered by 
air hubhling in the water. It leaks are found the cante&n is resoldered 
and again tested." 

In the matter of canteens we have not kept pace with other na- 
tions nor yet with the development and improvements made by in- 
ventors and industrial establishments in the United States, and which 
have been made evident by the open air tests made by me and here- 
inafter described. 

The canteen now and for many years issued by the Ordnance 
Department, is a poor affair, inconsistent with the improvements 
made in other articles of the soldier's equipment issued by the same 
department. 

I have found, in the possession of the ist Cavalry or of the 
8th Infantry, canteens made of X tin, of XX tin, and of XXX tin. 
Owing to this lack of uniformity in material, difference in weight 
and of durability exists. 

Some of the army canteens vary in capacity four or more ounces, 
the minimum being 42 fluid ounces. 

Difference exists, also in the weight, thickness and quality of the 
felt superimposed upon the flask. These variations are visible to the 
eye and have been further proven by immersion in water and by 
flame tests. 

The present service canteen is defective because it will not pre- 
serve fluid at a palatable temperature, in either very high or very 
low temperatures. A cause of this defect is that the tin flask is not 
covered by enough non-conducting material, viz., good, thick, all- 
wool felt. 

First Lieutenant F. L. Knudson, 8th Infantry, a soldier of nearly 
twelve years' experience in infantry service, says: "The canteen 
at present issued to the army is very poor. Its shape is such that 
it is inconvenient to carry, and its covering not sufficiently thick 
to keep the water cool. The stopper should be fashioned by having 
its chain secured on the inside of the canteen, because the present 
method of fastening it is not solid enough and causes the chain to slip 
off the neck of the canteen and the stoppers are very often lost. The 
canteen should be made of material that will not rust." 

Captain F. H. Sargent, 8th Infantry, says : "Noticed defect in 
canteen, wdiich should be of such shape as to fit close to the body and 
should be covered with a good felt, much thicker than the cover now 
in use, which is of poor material, shoddy and thin." 

Captain W. H. Hart, Brigade Quartermaster, N. G. S. I^Iinne- 



10 



HISTORY OF THE MILIT, 



M<V CAXTEEN. 



K 



covered by Ue La^^ ^et/.od. % en felt 




/>Oftt 







Mach 



IIISTORV OF THI-: MILITARY CAXTEEX. II 

sota, writes: "The Government canteen cover is of tiimsy material 
and cannot absorb nearly as much water as a canteen cover of fine 
piano all wool felt." 

Not to change and improve the present army canteen is to run 
counter to the workings of what clearly is the trend of development 
in the higher w^alks of business, science and the profession of arms in 
other countries. 

The service canteen should be a combination of a flask to con- 
tain fluids, provided with a cover to keep the contents of the flask at 
a palatable temperature ; that is, a condition with respect to heat or 
cold in zones, localities or temperatures other than ordinarily preva- 
lent in the temperate zone. 

It seems hardly necessary to dwell upon the fact that a canteen 
flask and its coverings must be separately, as well as unitedly, con- 
sidered. 

The canteen, per se, is a flask to contain forty-eight or more fluid 
ounces of water. It is in no wise responsible for the failure 
of its cover to protect its contents adequately from extreme varia- 
tions of temperature. The flask should be so made, or of such ma- 
terial, as to resist such treatment as a soldier might give it during a 
campaign, or the march, or in the field. 

Respects in Which the Care and Storage of Water in a Can- 
teen Resemble Storage Methods of Transporta- 
tion OF Food Products, 

It is not inappropriate to consider water as a food product, and, 
in hot weather, the canteen as a cold storage house. When the tem- 
perature ranges above 90 degrees, it is injurious to water as a food 
product. 

The Subsistence Department, U. S. Army, has to consider tem- 
peratures injurious to food products in storage or transportation, and 
methods of protection from the same. 

It is claimed that water is perishable when congealed, or when 
so hot as to be nauseating. It is also unfit for human consumption 
when unsanitary from any cause. Protection from excessive heat 
or cold is as necessary for drinking w'ater as for fruits, vegetables, 
dairy products, milk, green meats, poultry, game, fish, oysters, clams, 
malt and hop liquors, wet, canned or bottled groceries, ink, mucilage, 
proprietary medicines, mineral waters and drugs having water, in- 
stead of alcohol, as a base. 

Hence, in the construction of a canteen and its components, also 
in the transportation by the soldier of its perishalilc contents, primal 
objects to be attained are: 



12 IIISTUKV (H" THE MILITARY CAXTEEX. 

1. The protection of the contents from frost or excessive cold. 

2. The protection of the same from excessive heat. 

The temperatures at which drinking waters are hable to damage 
vary according to their condition when canteened. length of expos- 
ure, whether kept continually in motion, etc. 

The degrees of cold to which drinking fluids within canteens 
may be subjected \\ithout becoming impaired depends upon the time 
of exposure, whether allowed to stand, whether partly emptied, and 
the duration of the exposure, as well as the intensity of the cold. 

in the transportation and exposure of the food products, etc., 
named, concurrence of opinion and method exists as to the modern 
methods involving the efificacy of cars, etc., specially l)uilt, variably 
ventilated, properly lined and contents carefully packed in straw, 
hay, oat chaff, moss, sawdust, paper, etc. In the case of the canteen, 
the lining is properly represented by the cover, or outer jacket. 

Just as in the former case, a factor to be observed is the tempera- 
ture of the produce when put into the car, so the temperature of the 
fluid or water when th.e canteen is filled is a factor in determining 
the merit of the flask covering. If the fluid has been exposed to a 
low temperature for a considerable time before being canteened, it is 
in a jKior condition to withstand cold, and its original temperature 
must be taken into account. It is -also certain that even a car load 
of produce, like potatoes, will stand a lower temperature when the 
car is in motion than when at rest, so it is with a canteen's contents 
\\hen jolted. 

Cars are classed as ordinary refrigerator cars, salamanders and 
extraordinary refrigerator cars of the better class. Canteens may 
also l;e so classed. Some are simply water carriers; others are so 
protected as to assist in the process of refrigerating their fluid con- 
tents. 

Car loads of fish, etc., are protected by bins built into the car 
and thoroughly iced. The modern canteen has its non-conducting 
cover built on to the outside of the flask, and in hot weather the fluid 
contents of the flask are protected by moistening the absorbent inner 
cover. 

The relation between the outside air temperature and the tem- 
perature within the car varies largely, depending on the kind of car, 
whether an ordinary freight or refrigerator car, whether lined or 
not, whether standing still or in motion, and also on the weather, 
whether windy or calm, warm or cold. 

In shipping long distances in summer, it is necessary to rr-ico the 
cars, 



HISTORY OF Till: MILITARY CAXTKEX. 



13 



When tlic old soldier can, lie will, in hot weather, ininierse his 
corked canteen in water in order to resupply the absorbent inner 
cover with moisture and so retard the subsequent evaporation by 
keeping the outer cover tightly laced. 

It is important to note that in shipping fruits, etc., many of the 
precautions taken in packing to keep out the cold will also keep in 
the heat, there being really more danger in some instances from 
heating, steaming, cooking, etc., by process of decomposition than 
from cold. 

In cold weather the knowing old soldier who wants to keep his 
canteen full of coffee, tea, etc., hot, puts the fluid into the canteen 
when it is hot, and he does not wet the felt cover. 

Cars containing perishable goods are sometimes, when a south 
wind is blowing on the prairie, covered with canvas on the south 
side. They are lined, have padded doors, sides are protected by 
heavy paper tacked to the walls, also by the addition of an inner 
board wall a few inches distant from the outer one ; produce sur- 
rounded by straw, cars warmed by steam from the locomotive when 
in motion, and by stove when steam is not available. Lined cars 
are lined with tongued and grooved boards on the sides and ends 
and bulkheadcd. Cars, after being loaded, are carefully inspected 
as to temperature within ; their destination considered, etc. 

Cars were not thus equipped, packed and constructed, etc., i)rior 
to the construction of our transcontinental railways and cold storage 
establishments. Twenty-iive years ago shijipers used ordinary cars. 
The development and evolution of the canteen in the U. S. Army 
has not been such as to justify retaining any longer in service the 
army canteen now used by our soldiers. The development, improve- 
ment and evolution of the service canteen has not kept pace with 
the progress of the cold storage cars. 

In the modern method of storing water in a canteen, the recom- 
mendation is made that a modern canteen be used. That is to sav, 
one protected by felt instead of "Petersham," having superimposed 
an openable canvas cover made of some close woven textile fabric, 
the pattern of the cover being such as to facilitate the moistening of 
the felt. 

The best method of covering for a canteen known to me is the 
Lanz method. It does not necessarily quickly produce a low tem- 
perature in hot weather, but it keeps the contents of the canteen at 
a uniformly palatable temperature lietter than any other practicallv 
practicable device suited for the military service and personal trans- 
portation by the soldier in the open. 



14 II IS Torn' or Tin-: m unitary caxteex. 

Efforts are hciiii^;- eonslaiitl} nuulc U) reduce liie load of the fool 
soldier to a iiiiiiinnini. He solves the (|nestion ior himself in the 
field l)y discarding;- non-essentials and so enhances his fii^htint; and 
niarchin*^ powers, hut retains his canteen whether afoot, nionnletl or 
moving- hy wagon, transport or train. The canteen is not included 
Ijy him m the list of unnecessary impedimenta. 

A soldier must have water, and he luust have an a])i)liance to 
carry water. That canteen is the hest canteen which is the most per- 
fect non-conductor of heat and cold. 

In a report dated January 20, 1899, froni Headquarters ist Di- 
vision 2d Army Corps, Camp Mackenzie, Augusta, Ga., recommenda- 
tion was made that canteens should he covered with felt, or wool, 
not bare canvas. 

I now know that a llannel co\-er, unprotected, over a canteen, 
makes eva])oration too eas}- : that a leather covered canteen stops 
evaporation entirely ; that a canvas cover over felt retards evaporation 
and gives the hest results, viz., palatable water of low temperature 
for troops in the field in the sunimer season, or anv season in our 
tropical possessions. 

It is believed that the function of a canteen is to carry and ef- 
fectually preserve the temperature of water, either in hot or cold 
weather. 

The present U. S. canteen, as issued b}- the (Ordnance Depart- 
ment, does not satisfactorily preserve or maintain lluid at a ])alat- 
able temperature in either very high or very low temperatures. 

Every question in war should be considered in the aspect of what 
soldiers can do, and will do, when fatigued. A veteran soldier knows 
the value of a canteen. The three articles that he will hold on to 
longest are his rifle, his canteen and his blanket. If he has no am- 
munition for his rifle he may abandon it, but hang on to his canteen 
and blanket. He will never part with his canteen. Its value as an 
article of equipment is attested to by this fact. 

The material used to cover the canteen flask, now in use by the 
U. S. Army, is practically useless as a means for preventing the con- 
tents of the canteen from becoming frozen in cold weather. 

A method of preventing in hot weather the contents from be- 
coming unpalatable, by reason of high temperature, is to apply a layer 
of non-heat conducting material to the body of the flask, moistening 
this material so as to prevent the air from gaining access to the 
wetted material, thus retarding the process of evaporation. 

A method for effecting the desired end, in cold weather, is above 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAXTEEX. I5 

(lescril)C(l, c-xccpl that the layer of iiuii-hcal-conchictiiii^- maurial 
ajiplied to the hody of the llask shoukl not lie moistened. 

Old soldiers of the V. S. Army know that a woolen sloeking- leg- 
pulled over a eanteen helj^s to keep the contents cool, and they also 
know that, in tropical regions, the evaporation is retarded and the 
canteen contents thus kept palatable, especially if a dry cotton stock- 
ing leg is pulled over the wet woolen one. 

The veteran soldier, plainsman, scout or hunter, will, during hot 
weather, "dip" his canteen whenever opportunity offers. 

The body of the metallic flask used as a canteen should be thor- 
oughly covered with all wool felt, or other non-conducting absorbent 
fabric, material or substance, or by a combination of such. The 
better the felt, the better its absorbent properties, and the better are 
the results attained in any open air temperature to which the can- 
teen is exposed. 

There is a kind of felt, so-called, used for lining horse boots for 
wear, for padding saddles — "hair felt" it is called. Hair felt is 
sometimes wool mixed with hair of goat, ox, hare, rabbit, musquash 
and cotton or jute. Saddler's felt may be some wool mixed with 
any serrated edged, jagged or notched hair, the barbs of which point 
to the tip of the hair. 

The piano felt used on one pattern of the Lanz canteen heretofore 
mentioned is unwoven, clear, all-wool, and weighs about three (3) 
pounds to the square yanl. It is of 1-8, 2-8, 3-8, 4-8, etc., thickness, 
but the thickness alone does not indicate weight. It can be made of 
any reasonable thickness. It is said by piano manufacturers to be 
made in different weights, from one (i) to five (5) pounds per 
square yard. 

Another type of the Lanz canteen is protected by a wool sponge 
woven felt fabric ; a new departure, made in Amsterdam, N. Y. Its 
efficacy as a canteen flask cover has not yet been fully determined. 

Over the non-conducting material on the body of the flask should 
be superimposed an openable cover of some close woven textile fabric. 
An advantage of the partly openable duck, or canvas, cover, is that it 
facilitates moistening of the felt. When the cover is laced up over 
the moistened felt, evaporation is retarded and the contents of the 
canteen kept at a palatable temperature for a much longer period of 
time than if the present service canteen is used. 

It is fully recognized that the determination of the best canteen 
should rest upon their use in the field, and not l)y experimental tests 
in the hands of officers not serving with troops. Durability, corro- 



i6 



HISTORV ()1- llli: .Mir.lTARV CAXTEEN. 




ly the /,an7i Ca/?tee/? Co., C/?/ca^o,I7/. <?rf?Qmzffii»C 



HISTORY OF THE ^HLITARV CAXTKKX. 17 

sion, etc., of metal flasks, can l)e so determined. Facts uf this kind 
find in the field their best proving ground. 

Preparations for war include tests of appliances for war. The 
testing mania is overdone when a weary round of experimenting is 
done to determine questions that have already been determined by 
field use. 

Somnolent experimentation is out of place, for example, with the 
present canteen, antique a quarter of a century ago. Line officers 
who have been stationed in New Mexico, southern California and 
Arizona, to say nothing of Cuba and Porto Rico, know that a metal 
flask, used as a canteen, should be covered with a non-conducting sub- 
stance ; know that thick wool felt should be substituted for the 
"Petersham," or thin stufif, now superimposed upon the flask; know 
that this felt should be kept moist in a hot climate, in order to keep 
the contents of the flask palatable ; know that this woolen cover 
should have an outer cover that will allow, and retard, evaporation. 
No "tests" by any board are required to demonstrate these facts. 

DiOrSeRrPTiox of thf Arizona Canteepvi 

The Arizona canteen, cavalry size, weighs, dry, 40' Jz. ; wet, 82 
oz. ; holds 86 oz. It is covered with common saddler's felt, ^-inch 
thick, over which there is a canvas cover, whose edges through a por- 
tion of its circumference are partly laced, instead of being stitched — 
hence openable. The seams along the edges of the flask are per- 
manently stitched from the nozzle in each direction for a few inches. 

Originally — that is, in May, 1898 — the outer covering was com- 
posed of several thicknesses of blue flannel. The object of having 
an openable canvas cover, laced for a portion of its circumference, 
was for the purpose of admitting moisture to the inside felt and to 
secure the cooling effect due to retarded evaporation. 

The cover is made in four sections, two around the edge or cir- 
cumference, the remaining two being applied to each side, or face, of 
the flask, all joined by being stitched, except where lacing instead of 
.<=titching, is used on the circumference of the flask. 

A similar canteen, having a rigid central support, was carried by 
me along the Gila, Colorado and Rio Grande rivers twenty-five years 
ago. This particular canteen also accompanied me. when mounted, 
in the province of Santiago de Cuba. J"ne- August, 1898, and, later, 
in the province of Havana. Tt was my custom to wet it at sunset, 
and suspend the canteen for the night. It kept water at a lower temT 
pcrature throughout the following day than any other portable appli- 
ance known to me. 



l8 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

Complaint is made from the Philippines that the canteens used 
there always flatten after much usage, the flattening heginning on 
the side which rests against the saddle blanket. 

Before the days of railroads in New Mexico, southern Arizona 
and California, the canteens carried by us, in summer time, were large 
enough to hold about six pints of water. ' Existence depended, some- 
times, upon the contents of a big canteen. They were so large that 
flattening was prevented, at the expense of weight, by an inside cen- 
tral rigid support, made of the same metal as the flask, which support 
Avas soldered to one-half of the canteen before the halves which con- 
stituted the faces were put together. 

The Parker Canteen. 

The Parker canteen, like the Pasteur filter, has a tube. The lia- 
bility of the filtering tube to fracture by jolting incident to carriage 
and use, prompts an objection to its adoption for military use in the 
field. This objection is based on the fragile material from which the 
tube is made. The filter tube displaces about its own weight of water 
from the filled canteen, thus limiting the supply of fluid which the 
canteen w^ould otherwise hold. As water will not normally arise 
above its own level, it follows that when the canteen is only half full, 
the filter tube is only half full, etc. 

These canteens are made of tin, into the composition of which 
iron enters. Complaint was made by those of the Seventh U. S. 
Cavalry who drank in the province of Havana, the Vento spring 
water, or other water of that class, that contact of the fluid with the 
canteen was follow-ed by chemical action, oxidation, and that the 
water in the canteen became the color of ir«n rust. 

The deposit of oxide in the filter of the Parker canteen closed the 
pores and it soon ceased t6 be a filter. The closed end of the tube 
showed then a deep iron rust color and the water became undrink- 
able. 

The Parker canteen was reported on from Headquarters Depart- 
ment of Havana, April 24, 1899, after consultation with officers of the 
Second Squadron, Seventh U. S. Cavalry. I have not since been 
brought in contact with troops provided with any of the Parker can- 
teens. 

In my report to the Inspector General, through proper channels, 
dated April 27, 1899,. inspection Seventh U. S. Cavalry, I outlined 
the following undeniable principles, viz. : 

1. Filtration has for its object the removal of suspended matter. 

2. Organic matters adhere to the surface presented to the fluid 
within the flask. 



HISTORY OF THE MH^ITARV CANTEEN. I9 

3. Water passing slowly through it makes deposits in the inlcr- 
stices. 

The Parker canteen has a filter tube inside the flask : it is attached 
to an ordinary cork capped with a cap of hard rubber material having 
a removable cap, and a drink is obtained by suction, the fluid percolat- 
ing through the filter, which appears to be of infusorial earth or 
stone. 

The continuance of the action of the Parker filter, or any other 
filter is limited. 

Soldiers in the field will not find it practicable to clean the Pas- 
tucr, Parker. Berkfield or any other kind of filter made of infusorial 
earth. 

If the Parker filter is not cleaned, it clogs, and soon ceases to be a 
filter. 

For these reasons, apart from its friable nature, it is the opinion 
of Captain Luther R. Hare, Seventh U. S. Cavalry, and of the other 
officers of the Seventh U. S. Cavalry, formerly on duty in Cuba, that 
the Parker filter does not possess sufficient merit to warrant a further 
trial by U. S. troops. 

The tube alone weighs eight (8) ounces. The flask weighs six- 
teen (i6) ounces, holds about 56 ounces, avoirdupois, of water, less 
the amount displaced by the filter. The latter is 5 J inches long; 
diameter, i inch. 

Experience is a safe guide, l-'ilters were niuucrous at the begin- 
ning of the civil war, and the volunteers bought filters numerously 
at the begining of the Spanish-American war. They were service- 
able for a while, but campaign exigencies relegated them to the list of 
non-essentials, where plainsmen and old hunters had already placed 
them. 

The objections to the Parker filter for use in a military canteen, 
aside from its weight, clumsiness, etc., are that it is brittle and liable 
to fracture, particularly when moist. A crack becomes a structural 
imperfection. It cracks easily. Unless cleaned and sterilized fre- 
quently, the pores of the filter become filled with organic matter, 
which, decomposing, becomes oft'cnsive and a good culture bed for 
micro-organism. 

The objection that, after some use. it will become a breeding 
ground for bacilli and germs, is a vital one. 

The Parker filter is not capable of efficiently removing bacteria 
and other micro-organisms from water. Frequent cleaning by hot 
wet, or hot dry, process, is necessary. These processes are not 
always i)racticable by soldiers. Cleaning by brushing will wear away 



^6 IIISTOKV OF TllF. MII.ITARV CANTliEN. 

Ihc Itoiigie or lulx.'. Such, in :iny (.asc, will not cleanse below the 
portion touched. 

The Aluminum Caxteex, 6o oz.. German Cover. — The Karls- 
ruhe Ger.max Ali.mixum Caxteex. 

Through the courtesy of Messrs. George and William Lanz, 183 
Lake street, Chicago, 111., I have lieen furnished with two aluminum 
canteens, one having a capacity of sixty (60) ounces ; the other forty- 
three (43) fluid ounces/ both flasks fabricated in Karlsruhe, Baden, 
Germany. The large flask has a German-made felt cover — no canvas 
— weight, including carrying strap, fourteen (14) ounces. The 
medium flask has a Lanz cover, and inner cover of the kind patented 
by Mr. Lanz, August 14, 1900; weight, fifteen (15) ounces. Cuts 
of the tw^o are shown herewith, (pp. 115. 10.) 

These canteens were tested by me in the open air, in conjunction 
with others. In the first tests made, each flask w^as filled to its full 
capacity. In the subsequent tests, the amount of water in each was 
the same, this in order to equalize conditions as much as possible. 

The DununuE Sta.mimnc and 1'!namel Canteen, with the 
Pakki:r I'^i.ricR. 

It is understood that this is a naked metal flask, coated inside and 
outside with some kind of agate, vitrified, glazed, incrysted, porce- 
lained, lava, granite or annealed ware. If it chips like the enameled 
agate ware used in furnishing officers' mess chests, its use will be 
dangerous if the chips are swallowed. In composition it is under- 
stood to resemble the kind of ware comiuonly used in cooking uten- 
sils. This type, viz. : uncovered metal, is merelya thing to carry fluid 
in without pretending to keep the fluid at a palatable temperature. 

Whatever canteen is adopted, it is essential that the flask be 
covered with a non-conducting fabric or substance. 

The lower part of the neck, or nozzle, or mouth-piece, of the 
Dubuque Enamel canteen forms a right angle with the side-band of 
the flask, and so cuts away the filter part of the Parker tube, expos- 
ing the center metal rod. This cutting away causes the friable mat- 
ter of which the filter is composed to break away from the rod. The 
jolting incident to transportation would probably cause it to disinte- 
grate, if used in the Dubuque Enamal canteen, owing to the mechani- 
cal construction of the neck of the flask. 

A dealer in white enamel ware, manufactured in Sweden, states 
that that process of enameling is like that pursued in this country in 
painting bicycle frames and then btirning on the paint. 



IIISTOKV OF THE MILITAKV CA.XTliEX. 



21 



W'o+ar Carf V CUir 

fovncJ o+ ■FSr^ ^an Jv.art 

^a.^4.,a5o rfe Cuba 








Cofiee^ Mvm iy Iff/i^irj KS./ltmy. /s/6. 



22 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

He has for sale utensils made of the ware, iron hase, white enamel, 
and says that they will stand the test of fire without fusing ; in fact, 
that coffee could be boiled in any of the utensils ; but admits that the 
ware will chip, little fragments break oft', thus exposing the iron base ; 
rust then sets in, undermining the rest of the glaze, enamel, vitreous 
coating or material used to give the metal a porcelain or agate coat- 
ing. Makers of bath tubs have had the same trouble in making the 
enamel stick to the metal. 

The material which enters into the canteen made by the Dubuque 
Stamping and Enamel Company may be of some such combination 
ware as the Swedish lacquered ur glazed ware. If it is, a proposition 
from a would-be contractor to furnish such canteens for military use 
would incite the condemnatory sense and sentiment of practical 
soldiers. 

The Dubuque Enamel canteen is not so good as the present type of 
regulation canteen. Tests have proved its worthlessness, except to 
carry water in. Its shape is about identical with the wood canteen, 
or water bottle, contemporaneous with our second war with England. 
The modern canteen is not of circular, liut of oval, gourd, oblong, 
bottle, or flask shape. 

The Newark, .\'e\\ Jersey. Ahminim Canteen Im.ask. 

The New Jersey Aluminum Company, Newark. N. J., submitted 
to me for test three samples of their aluminum canteen llask. ( See 
"M," "N" and "O" Test Tables, pp. 64). All are of circular fig- 
drum, or cheese-box shape. The mouth-piece appears to be soldered 
on ; its diameter is considerably less than that of the orifice in the 
side piece of the flask, and it is a separate piece of aluminum ; the 
side-rings are inserted in ears riveted to the flask. Each flask appar- 
ently consists of eight pieces, the rivets not being counted, including 
the wire loops. The finish is such that no seams are visible. The 
firm claims that the flasks are made without the use of solder. They 
are not provided with covers or stoppers. One face is flat, perhaps 
slightly concave, the other face being convex. 

The aluminum canteen flask, made by the Newark. N. J., Alum- 
inum Company, and covered by the Lanz method, i^-inch felt, and 
openable canvas cover (termed in test tables p. 64,- canteen "F"), 
underwent thirty-four tests by me, on as many different days. It has 
on each side a flat piece of the same metal, aluminum, riveted to the 
flask. This flat piece is doubled and bent so as to make a loop in 
which there turns a bent piece of looped wire, which serves to attach 
the hook, or snap, of the canteen strap to. Three rivets are used in 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 23 

each flat piece ; no soldering visible ; length of rivets unknown. Xo 
leakage occurred during any of the tests at the points where rivets 
were used. 

Eyelets of the outer canvas cover, Lanz method, are reinforced 
on the inside by a bit of canvas, folded double. The all-wool felt 
used as the inner jacket consists of two pieces, each cut with a beveled 
edge in order to give the jacket a snug fit where joined. These pieces 
are neatly secured together l)y stitching of copper or aluminum wire. 

This firm writes as follows : We are in receipt of your valued 
favor of the 14th instant, together with the enclosure of the various 
tests of canteens. We observe that two of ours proved leaky, while 
the others bursted. We also take note of the fact that other canteens 
fared no better. These tests are indeed valuable to every manu- 
facturer of canteens, and you may rest assured that if given another 
opportunity we are still in the race. We think that we would know^ 
how to make a canteen, and confess that we think your tests rather 
severe. We especially observe your remark of a canteen of the oval 
type, concaved on the side which comes next to the body, and convex 
on the outer side, to hold 48 fluid ounces. To prove to you that wc 
can make such canteens ( in fact, we have made flasks of just that 
particular type), we are forwarding to you one under separate cover, 
which, by the way, you need not return if you care to keep it. There 
is but one hitch in this particular canteen, that is to fasten the rings 
by which the canteen is carried. Just as soon as we attempt to rivet 
there it makes the weakest point in the canteen. We may, however, 
find some other way to overcome this. We should very much like 
to send you one of the requisite size, but as there is considerable 
expense connected therewith to produce it, we hesitate until we hear 
further from you. You can, of course, readily understand that each 
and every manufacturer competing in this matter is desirous of ob- 
taining an order with some profit to himself. It is, therefore, we 
speak as we do ; w^e prefer for the present not to make the larger size, 
which we know w^ould be perfect, especially if made of one piece as 
you suggest. Now, if you think it would pay us to go into it and 
make the dies and tools for producing a canteen of that kind, we are 
willing to take the chances as regards the test, but if there are no 
prospects, we would very much thank you to tell us so. 

Thanking you kindly for having given us the opportunity to look 
over the tests, we remain, etc. 

Tin: Rf.y.mond & GoTTLon Ai.rMixr.M Caxteex. 

.'^onic of the canteens to which the consideration of the military 
men are invited are picnic affairs, suited, perhaps, for a tourist, or a 



24 lllSTOUY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

bicyclist on a summer outing, but not adapted in construction, sbape, 
capacity, durability or rigidity for military purposes. 

Of this class is the aluminum canteen, retail price, $1.50, sold by 
Messrs. Reymond & Gottlob, 831 Broadway, N. Y. Its weight, in- 
cluding cover, is 8 oz. It is of circular shape, fig-drum, cheese-box 
appearance, covered with a single thickness of what may be felt. 
Dimensions, 6 in. diameter, 2^ in. deep. It is not seamless ; flask 
not of one piece. It is said to be spun. No solder is said to be used. 
The felt covering buttons upon the outer, or convex, base of the 
flask by flat-headed glove-buttoning fastenings, and the sling, f in. 
wide, is of strap leather. It is doubtful whether the button fastening 
method would be durable. 

Being filled to its capacity ( 29 fluid ounces ) with water having a 
temperature of 94 degrees F., it was exposed with others in the open 
air at a temperature varying from 4 degrees F. to 10 degrees F. 
At the end of four hours the contents dropped to 32 degrees. After 
an exposure of six hours, the contents were frozen, and it leaked in all 
succeeding tests. 

Its resisting, or non-conducting, properties are about the same 
as the Government regulation service canteen, ordnance pattern, 
which is protected by "Petersham" (or shoddy felt), and canvas 
cover. Perhaps it should be rated a little a1)0ve the Karlsruhe, Baden, 
Germanv. aluminum canteen when covered by the single felt German 
method. 

Messrs. Reymond & Gottlob are importers of aluminum fancy 
goods and novelties, branch at 109 Fulton street, factory, 115-121 
East Thirteenth street. New York. The firm writes as follows : 
"We can make the desired canteen, provided it is ordered in fair- 
sized quantities, and if you could submit a sample of one you think 
the most useful, we would be thankful to you. We have no connec- 
tion with any European house, and would not know what is desired 
for your purpose. 

We truly believe that our canteen is superior to any one in the 
market and has no equal. As to durability, it outlasts any one, besides 
being as pure as gold, and will not rust or change any, and think it is 
the most useful thing for the army. 

We are very anxious to have you make a trial, and kindly ask 
you to report to us the results. Further, wish to say that we have sold 
these to a good many ofificers of the U. S. Army, and every one has 
given our canteens the highest praise. 

We have tried over and again to get the Government interested 
in the same, but there seems to be a hitch somcwhce which we can- 
not explain. 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 2$ 




^i>Tce of ^ales /yfeta/Zia /^/!a5^, shaded, to At t^e pzrso^ , 
>z^rt7r JStiUomi to/o *vA/cA corff7ot ieconre detac?ieai . 
Capacity ^33 f/uifcl/ 9(4 nce^. <3Mimiitcd iy iJit lany;: Cay7iief7Co.t 



2t3 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

We guarantee every one of ours to Ije water-tight, and even 
soldering can be done on them." 

The Preston Field Ration Mess Kit. 

(ira(hially the armies of the world are adopting ahunintim for 
mess kits, and the Ordnance Department of the U. S. Army has for 
a number of years been testing the qualities of aluminum for this 
])urpose. Owing to the Cuban and Philippine wars, these tests have 
Ijcen somewhat delayed, but during the last year the department has 
issued to the service, for trial, one thousand sets of the Preston Mess 
Kit. 

This kit was patented March 3, 1896, by Lieutenant Guy H. 
Preston, U. S. A., and is made by the Scovill Manufacturing Com- 
pany, Waterbury, Conn. The retail price of same, complete, is $4.50. 

A glance at the illustrations will demonstrate the improve- 
ment in compactness and convenience over any kit now in use. Being 
made wherever possible, of aluminum, it has the additional advantage 
of increased lightness, and strength as well. Its weight, with cover, 
is 2 lbs. 5 oz. The only metals used in any way are aluminum, tin 
and iron, so that no injurious salts can be formed by corrosion. 

Following is a description of articles of which the kit is com- 
posed : 

The Canteen Proffer. — This has a capacity of little over three 
pints. It is made of hca\ily coated tin, soldered at its joints. Tin is 
used rather than aluminum, because as yet no satisfactory solder has 
been found for aluminum, and the canteen could not well be made 
without joints. The cork has a cap of aluminum to keep the corners 
from crumbling when inside, and cannot be lost because of a chain 
and bar which hang on the inside of the canteen. 

Frying Pan. — This is made of aluminum with a heavily tinned 
steel handle, which, when packed, swings back on a hinge and lies 
flat on the bottom of the pan. A very ingenious and durable device 
with a sliding pin, which cannot be lost, is used for holding the handle 
in position when in use. The pan is about i inch in depth and fits 
over the side of the canteen when in the canvas cover. This frying- 
pan has a cover, which is its counterpart in size and shape, and fits 
over the other side of the canteen when inside of the canvas cover. 
This may be used as another cooking pan or serving dish. It has no 
handle, but may l)e locked tightly over the top of the frying pan, 
thus making a case for carrying rations or may 1)e slijiped loosely over 
the frying pan, thus making a fine baker. 

Cup or Sauce Pan. — This is made of aluminum with a heavily 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 27 

tinned steel handle, which, when packed, closes within the cup. When 
in use, a small gravity catch keeps the handle in its proper position. 
The cup is strongly reinforced where the handle is riveted on, so that 
the weight of its contents will not work it loose. This cup, when 
packed, slips over the bottom of the canteen, which it fits snugly. 

Canvas Cover. — This is very strongly made of the best brown 
canvas. A strong canvas strap with an adjoining buckle is securely 
sewed about the bottom end of the cover. This cover may also be 
furnished with D rings, when desired, to take the regular cavalry 
carrying strap issued by the Quartermaster's Department. The top 
of the cover is laced tight about the canteen, leaving but the neck 
exposed. Inside is a double lining of gray felt, which is secured to 
canvas. This is to keep the water cool. The aluminum pans are also 
a help in this respect, as aluminum is a bad conductor of heat. A 
pocket is sewed to the inside of the canvas to hold the knife, fork 
and spoon, which are made of steel, very heavily tinned and silver 
plated. Being made of steel they are strong and can easily be kept 
sharp, and being tinned they do not become rusty. 

Captain W. C. Brown, First U. S. Cavalry, is quoted as stating 
that : "The Preston Mess Outfit is very convenient and suitable for 
officers' use, but the aluminum sheet used for the frying pan and 
plate, are rather too thin to withstand the rough usage which they will 
get in the hands oi enlisted men." 

Tin: Cowf.KS Caxteen. 

Name of inventor, John T. Cowles, 224 East Washington street, 
Chicago, 111., alleged to have assigned same to Mr. George Lanz, 183 
Lake street, Chicago, a manufacturer of leather goods, and who has 
furnished ordnance leather equipments to the Ordnance Department 
U. S. Army, also to English forces now in South Africa. 

This invention relates especially to army contracts for the use of 
foot and mounted soldiers, but may be adapted as well for large 
water receptacles, such, for example, as may be used for carrying a 
temporary supply of water for horses in cavalry and artillery service. 

The object of the invention is to provide means for more effectu- 
ally preserving the temperature of water either in hot or cold 
weather. For individual use, the flask of the canteen is of the usual 
double convex type. It is a canteen in combination, basing its merits, 
in part, upon the physical principle of convection. A covering of fib- 
rous material is applied to the flask and impregnated with a non-heat- 
conducting material. There is a filling of corrugated fibrous paper 
interposed between the fibrous covering and spaced apart from an 



28 IIISTOKV OF Till': MILITARY CANTEEN. 

outer rigid shell, which encloses the whole. The walls of the shel 
have rigid supports. The shell has a textile cover. 

The canteen is provided with the usual nozzle and chained stop- 
per. The materials used to impregnate the felt, or other fibrous 
material used as a cover to the flask, are said to be sulphate of alum- 
inum, common salts, and sulphate of ammonia, or the three mixed. 
It is stated that the inventor does not desire to be limited to these 
particular substances, as there are many materials which may be 
applied to a fibrous carrying substance with greater or less efficiency, 
the process being to conveniently impregnate the fibrous material b}- 
saturating it with a solution of the substance and then drying it out. 

The covered flask is encased in a shell of sheet metal, spaced 
apart from the fibrous cover, so as to leave an air chamber. To the 
case there is applied the usual fibrous jacket, and this, in turn, is 
enclosed by means of a canvas cover which is openable through a 
portion of its circumference, the seam along the edge of the flask 
being permanently stitched from the nozzle in each direction for a 
short distance and through the remainder of the circumference of the 
flask being closed by lacing, so that the canvas cover may be opened 
for the purpose of admitting moisture to the fibrous material, whereby 
the cooling eflfect, due to evaporation, is secured. 

See "Lanz Canteen" for this form of laced canvas cover. 

The shell has a cross-rib support applied to its inner face central 
as to the sides of the flask and bearing against the fibrous cover, so 
that the shell will not be easily indented. The corrugated paper used 
as filling is impregnated with a non-heat-conducting material. One 
form of the shell of the Cowles canteen is corrugated, the corruga- 
tions being arranged meridianally as to the shell and being of maxi- 
mum depth across its equator and disappearing at its polar portions. 

The inventor claims that by the use of the outer covering of felt 
protected by a close woven fabric, such as canvas, the benefit is 
secured of the long continued efifect due to slow evaporation, the felt 
having been saturated when the canteen is full. 

The canteens heretofore made have proved inadequate as to 
means for keeping the water sufficiently cool to be palatable in hot 
climates. For this reason the expedient named is supplemented in the 
canteen forming the subject of this mention, by the metallic casing- 
enclosing the flask in such manner as to form with the w^alls thereof 
an air-space. The advantage gained by this construction is decidedly 
augmented by the layer of fibrous material applied directly to the 
flask, and by but partially filling the air-space between it and the 
casing, this fibrous material being itself a good non-conductor of 
heat, but being rendered far more efficient in this regard by being 



iii.ST(_)K\' ()i- Till': Mii.iTAUv c A \ ri:i;\. 29 

impregnated with the suhstaiices named, whieh possess \'ery low 
conductivity. 

By supplementing these features with the corrugated paper placed 
with the air-space named, a further marked advantage is secured, 
not only because of the efficacy of the paper, especially when 
impregnated with the materials named above as non-conductors, but 
because of the sub-division of the air-space into numerous cells, 
thereby preventing the circulation of air and the consequent trans- 
mission of heat by convection. 

The principle of the invention is not limited to this, or any other 
canteen form, but is equally applicable to a flask or tank (^f any 
shape. 

The Laxz Canteex. 

Name of inventor, William Lanz. and manufacturer. Mr. George 
Lanz, 183 Lake street, Chicago, 111. 

The canteen is one of the few articles of equipment that the prop- 
erly trained soldier will never part with. Every question in war 
should be considered in the aspect of what men can do, and will do, 
when fatigued. ]\Ir. George Lanz is a reputable wholesale manu- 
facturer and contractor for leather goods. He has made a large 
number of saddle bags, pistol holsters, etc., for the Ordnance Depart- 
ment, U. S. Army, and for the British service. 

This invention relates to army canteens and the like, and its object 
is to provide such a cover for the sheet metal flask, of which such 
articles are usually composed, that it will more efifectually prevent 
changes of temperature of the contents than has heretofore been 
accomplished. The usual reliance for acomplishing this object has 
been a jacket of a substance called felt, or of a mixture of cotton or 
jute mixed with wool, called felt, covered with canvas, which jacket 
is so intended that by the process of evaporation the contents of the 
flask will remain cool. 

This means for preventing the contents of the flask from becom- 
ing warm has been inadequate because the outer covering of the can- 
teen has usually been of finely woven canvas, or like fabric, which is 
very nearly water-proof, and hence, although water may have been 
poured upon the canteen, or the latter may have been dipped into 
water, the moisture would not penetrate the canvas covering, and 
hence the inner lining of cotton and jute mixed with wool felt would 
remain dry. 

The form of construction now in use by the U. S. Army also is, 
of course, practically valueless as a means of preventing the contents 
of the canteen from becoming frozen in cold weather. 



30 TITSTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

One form of the Lanz invention consists in covering the flask 
with a material, or a layer of material, having- a low heat-conducting 
character, and placing- over the layer an envelope of water-proof 
material, so that the inner layer will never hecome wet ; upon this 
envelope is superimposed the usual jacket, or jackets, of fibrous 
material, such as felt, and this in turn is covered with canvas or sim- 
ilar textile fabric, closely woven, so that it is almost impervious to 
water. 

This outer cover is openable, its seam being in part formed by 
lacing, so that it may be readily opened for renewal or for the pur- 
pose of permitting moisture to freely enter the felt jacket when the 
canteen is immersed in water. 

The invention consists further in making the canteen with one of 
its sides flattened or slightly concave. 

Drawings illustrating this invention, side elevation, edge view 
and transverse section, are in the possession of the inventor at No. 
183 Lake street, Chicago, 111. (See page 31.) 

The flask is the usual rounded double convex form, except that 
one of its sides is made slightly concave, so that it may rest more 
easily upon the hip of the user when slung from the shoulder. The 
flask is provided with the usual nozzle closed by a stopper provided 
with a chain and ring. 

A layer of non-heat-conducting material is applied to the body of 
the flask, preferably granular cork is used for this purpose, and it 
may he secured to the canteen by first coating the latter with a suit- 
able cement and then sprinkling the cork upon it while the cement 
is moist ; or the cork may first be molded into a shell adapted to fit 
snugly against the side of the flask. Other forms of the Lanz can- 
teen omit this layer. 

This layer of material is enclosed in an envelope of water-proof 
material. F^ir this purpose oilcloth is preferably used, though any 
material which will prevent water from gaining access to the cork 
will serve. 

L^'pon the envelope is superimposed a layer, or layers, of fibrous 
material, jireferably felt, and this, in turn, is encased in felt, wool, 
canvas or other fabric. This cover is made in two sections, one 
applied to each side of the flask, the two being joined by a seam which 
may be permanently and closely stitched from the nozzle part way 
round the canteen ; but through a considerable portion of this seam, 
preferably exceeding one-half of the circumference of the canteen, 
lacing is used. 

In use, the lacing is, or may be, opened after the flask is filled. 



IIISTOKV OF Tlir. Mir.lTARV CANTEEX. 




G 





3- IITSTORV OF Till'. .MILITARY CANTEEN. 

and the caiUccn, if the water or wcatlior ])c warm, is then immersed 
in water so that the felt jacket may liecome thoroughly saturated. 
The lacing is now drawn tightly so as to prevent the air from gain- 
ing access to the felt, and thereby the process of evaporation is 
greatly retarded, so that under ordinary circumstances the felt will 
continue moist for a numhcr of hours. 

The layer of cork, or other material, prevents the heat from pass- 
ing through the walls of the flask when the temperature of the felt 
jacket is raised above that of the contents of the canteen, so that the 
water remains cool and palatable for manv hours after the flask is 
filled. 

The ofifice of the water-jM-oof envelope is to prevent the layer of 
non-heat-conducting material from becoming weighted, and hence, in 
time, foul, and also to prevent the metal of which the flask is formed 
from corroding. 

In cold weather the felt is, of course, not moistened, and, being, 
when dry, an efifective non-conductor of heat, it, with the inner layer 
of cork, or similar material, will prevent the liquid within the can- 
teen from parting with its beat for a consideral)le period, so that he 
danger of freezing is greatly lessened. 

While the construction heretofore mentioned may be preferable 
to any other, the w-ater-proof layer of non-heat-conducting material 
may be omitted and the jacket of fibrous material be applied directly 
to the l)ody of the flask, enclosing it within the canvas cover whicb 
is openable for the purpose of admitting moisture to the felt, and 
may then be closed by lacing, so as to greatly retard the process of 
evaporation. Many of our old soldiers have learned that a woolen 
stocking leg pulled over a canteen helps to keep the contents cool. 

An English patent of 1884 describes a canteen witb a felt cover- 
ing and a leather cover laced over it. An Italian patent of 187 1 
refers to a felt and flannel laced cover for a canteen. It is claimed 
that neither of these can accomplish what is claimed for the canteens 
made by j\Ir. George Lanz, 183 Lake street, Chicago, 111., viz.: Re- 
tard the evaporation. Experimental tests have been made by Mr. 
Lanz demonstrating varying and relative results, using a canteen 
witb a leather cover, with a flannel cover, with a canvas cover. 

The merits of the Lanz made canteen are that it will keep cool 
water at a low temperature, reduce higb temperatured water to a 
drinkable temperature, or warm liquid at a high temperature, longer 
than any other canteen now in use by any military power. 

These results are accomplished by enveloping or casing the can- 



HISTORY Oh- im-: military canteen. 33 

teen with a non-comlucting snl)stancc, such as wool, felt, cork or 
granulated cork, sometimes in conjunction with a certain cement. 

Another device of his manufacture is to encase the protected can- 
teen hy an outer shell of metal, there being an air-space between the 
shell and the enveloped canteen. The shell is held away from the 
canteen bv two beveled cork bufifers. These buffer heels also protect 
the canteen. The whole is then covered. 

It is designed that each soldier shall carry one, suspended by a 
strap from the shoulder, to carry cool water, hot coffee, or whatever 
beverage may be obtainable on the march or in the field. 

It is claimed that the drinkable properties of the hquid continue 
for a longer period than by any other device patented, or used, by 
any army. 

The Lanz canteen is not a tin flask enveloped with a thin mixture 
of cotton, wool or jute, then canvas covered. 

The patentee makes the canteen of aluminum, and also of various 
other metals, or combinations of metals; likewise of wood, paper 
pulp, caoutchouc, etc. 

In shape, the circular form is generally preserved, but one face is 
convex, the other being concave. When slung, the concave face is 
next to the body of the wearer. A filter may be fastened to the noz- 
zle or mouth, if desired. The capacity may be from three pints 
upward, same as model. Ordnance pattern, U. S. Army. The cavalry 
model canteen is of larger capacity than the one designated for the 
equipment and transportation of foot soldiers. 

The weight of the Lanz canteen is about six (6) ounces in excess 
of the U. S. canteen of the same capacity, forty-six (46) fluid ounces 
of water, being twenty (20) ounces of avoirdupois. 

The following tests are reported by him, five (5) canteens being 
used : 

First test. No. i, U. S. canteen, as issued by Ordnance Depart- 
ment. No. 2, Lanz canteen. No. 3, another Lanz canteen. Tem- 
perature of hydrant water with which each canteen was filled, fifty- 
fiv^ (55) Fahrenheit. Exposure at rest, 115. Time of exposure, 6 
hours. Results: No. i. U. S. canteen, 94. No. 2, Lanz canteen, 76. 
No. 3, Lanz canteen, 72. 

Second test. No. i, L"^. S. canteen, as issued by Ordnance Depart- 
ment. No. 2, Lanz canteen. No. 3, Improved Lanz canteen. Tem- 
perature of water at time of filling each canteen, 55 Fahrenheit. 
Canteens suspended at rest and exposed for 5 hours to a temperature 
of 135. The exterior surface of each canteen was dry before, and 



34 UISTOKV ()1- THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

<luring, the test. Results ; No. i, L'. S. military canteen. 1 14. XO. 2, 
Lanz canteen, 90. No. 3, Improved Lanz canteen, 84. 

Third test. Xo. i, V. S. canteen, as issued by Ordnance Depart 
ment. No. 2, Braided Lanz canteen, wet. No. 3, Braided Lanz 
canteen, dry. No. 4, Arizona canteen, cavalry size, dry. No. 5, 
Braided Lanz-Cowles canteen, granulated cork cased, dry. Tem- 
perature of water when each canteen was filled, 55 Fahrenheit. All 
canteens suspended remained at rest during test. Time of exposure 
to a temperature constantly of 136 Fahrenheit, 5 hours. Results: 
No. I. U. S. canteen, 104. No. 2 Braided Lanz canteen, wet, 92 
No. 3, Braided Lanz canteen, dry, 94. No. 4, Arizona canteen, 
cavalry size, dry, 92. ( Memorandum : The quantity of water in the 
Arizona canteen was double that placed in any of the other canteens.) 

Mr. Lanz has, he states, tested made coffee, also tea, just ofif the 
fire, in his canteens, and then placed them in an ice-chamber — and 
claims that for use in the winter season, Arctic regions, etc., the non- 
conducting properties of his canteens have demonstrated like superior 
relative value. 

He states, also, that he has attached various canteens to men on 
the march, to horses, moving bicycles, railway cars, etc., thus assimi- 
lating to conditions of actual service, with results proving the 
superiority of his inventions. One of his canteens is made of cor- 
rugated material. 

In this connection, attention is invited to my report, dated 20 Jan., 
1899, from Lleadquarters, ist Division, 2d Army Crops, Camp Mac- 
kenzie, Augusta, Ga., reiterating previous recommendation that can- 
teens should be covered with felt, or wool, inside the canvas cover. 

It is now recommended that whatever canteen be adopted — the 
flask be thoroughly covered with wool, felt, flannel, or by a non-con- 
ducting fabric, or substance. 

The Lanz canteen is based on rational principles. The improve- 
ments in the service canteen have not kept pace with the developments 
in every other portion of the equipment or accoutrement of our 
soldiers ; they have sufifered needlessly because not provided with 
canteen which would keep water at a drinkable temperature in 
tropical regions and during the heated season. 

Hence it is recommended that a thousand, or more, be ordered, for 
issue, trial, practical use in the field, and special reports. 

Further, that the attention of the Chief of Ordnance, also of the 
Board of Fortification, Ordnance, and Equipment, be invited to the 
device. 

A defect of the V . S. canteen is that the covering will not retain 



HISTORY or THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 35 




thz /oi^er 7?a/f of the 3 he// of the f/asTc 7^ remouai/e 
fot use as a. dr/rr/c/^f cup. SuT>n?/iieci iy the Larr^ 
/rrQMufacii^f/^f Co.^ Oh/ca^o j7/. 



36 IIISTUKV (JF TJIi: .MlLllAKV CAXTEEX. 

moisture in Imi wrallicr. Iiciu\' (-onlrnts of canteen lieeonie unpala- 
table. 

Air. ( icori^e Lanz claims : 

1. In combination, a tlask, a layer of low-heat-conducting char- 
acter covering- the flask, a waterproof envelope for such covering ; a 
jacket of fibrous material superimposed upon the envelope and an 
openable cover of close woven textile fabric for the jacket. 

2. In a canteen, in combination, a flask, a layer of granulated 
cork covering the flask, a waterproof envelope for such covering, a 
jacket of fibrous material superimposed upon the envelope, and a 
canvas cover for the jacket, such cover being composed of two sec- 
tions joined together, in part, by lacing. 

3. In a canteen, in combination, a flask, a jacket of uninter- 
rupted absorbent material therefor, and an openable cover for the 
jacket made of close woven fabric. 

4. He claims the herein described method of retarding the rise 
of temperature of a liquid in an environment of a relatively higher 
temperature consisting in enclosing the liquid in a flask moistening 
the exterior of the flask and retarding the evaporation of such 
moisture. 

Some of his canteens are protected by felt 1-8 of an inch in 
thickness : some by 2-8-inch felt : some by 3-8-inch felt ; some by 4-8- 
inch felt. 

Some have i -8-inch layer of granular cork; some 2-8-inch cork; 
some 3-8-inch cork layer next the flask. 

Some have both felt and cork of varying thickness over the flask 
— Init all of the patterns of Lanz canteens have outside, the canvas 
laced up, openable cover. He claims to use only the best imported 
piano felt. 

At Camp Lake View, Minn., during the week 19th to 27th July, 
1900, some tests of the Lanz canteen as compared with the U. S. 
canteen as at present issued by the Ordnance Department, U. S. A., 
were made by Asst. Surgeon Asa Friend Goodrich, Medical Corps, 
N. Ci. S. M., and ist Lieut. Wm. Arthur Carleton, ist Regt. Infantry, 
N. G. S. M. 

The Lanz canteen was the property of Capt. Wm. H. Hart. 
Brigade Quartermaster, Minnesota National Guard. 

I was present at some of the tests and loaned what I call my 
Arizona canteen to be tested with the other canteens named. 

One of the tests involved carrying a canteen attached to the 
saddle and carried for several hours in a liot sun on a horse in such a 
manner as to receive warmth from the bodv of the horse. 



HISTORY UF THE MILITARY CANTEEX. 3/ 

The following is a copy of the endorsement of the Lanz canteen 
by Capt. W. H. Hart. Reports were also made by Dr. Goodrich and 
Lieut. Carleton : 

"Camp Lake View, Lake City, Minn.. July 29, 1900. Mr. George 
Lanz, Manufacturer and I'atentee Lanz Canteen. 183 Lake Street, 
Chicago, 111. Sir: I am satisfied that when a metal tlask containing 
water is covered with felt that has been saturated with water and the 
felt then covered with canvas that is laced up tight so as to minimize 
the access of air, the retarded evaporation operates to keep the con- 
tents of the flask palatably cool for a longer period, and at a lower 
temperature, than by any other process known to me. The higher 
the atmospheric temperature the better, so long as the felt is kept 
moist. 

"You sent me for test and trial one of your canteens. The flask 
held about forty-five (45) fluid ounces. It had a layer of granulated 
cork stuck on to canvas and varnished, I think. Over that layer was 
a felt cover about a quarter of an inch thick. Over that was an open- 
able canvas cover laced up like Colonel Reade's. 

"The Government canteen cover is of flimsy material and cannot 
absorb nearly as much water as a canteen covered with fine piano all- 
wool felt. 

"I caused two officers of the Minnesota National Guard to con- 
duct a series t)f tests of your canteen at this place a few days ago. as 
compared with the U. S. Government canteen as issued by the Ord- 
nance Department, U. S. A. 

"Col. Reade's canteen, the one he used in June-August, 1898, in 
Santiago de Cuba, was borrowed for comparative test by these two 
officers. His canteen was covered with common saddler's felt covered 
with a laced canvas cover. 

"Every care was exercised to make the conditions uniform ; all 
canteens were filled at the same time ; quantity of water in each the 
same ; immersed fairly ; same exposure ; one thermometer used in 
testing. 

"My personal judgment is based upon the results of those tests, 
and you can refer to me as one who condemns the present Govern- 
ment canteen and would like to see it superseded by the Lanz canteen. 

"For what sum per hundred can you recover, by your process, the 
V. S. canteens now in the hands of the Minnesota National Guard? 

"<^^-^"^^-^ W.H.Hart, 

"Captain- and Brigade Quartermaster. 
"National Guard, State of Minnesota." 



38 HISTORY OF Tin: .MILITARY CANTEEN. 

In witnessing these tests, several questions were ni mv mind : 
For use in tropical regions — 

1. Did the inner cork jacket of one form of Lanz canteen do any 
good? 

2. Did the waterproof layer (oilcloth, resin, cement, or varnish), 
whatever the substance might be, used to protect the inner layer, do 
any good? 

3. Was the Lanz theory of having next to the tiask a layer of 
material having low heat-conducting properties covered with a water- 
proof substance in order to prevent water from gaining access to 
the cork jacket, correct? 

4. If the inner jacket, so isolated, aided to keep the contents of 
the flask palatable, was it commensurate with the enhanced cost and 
weight ? 

5. Would it not be better to discard this inner jacket ami sub- 
stitute a like amount in weight of fibrous or textile material, as in 
the Arizona canteen which has the felt material applied directly to the 
flask ? 

Using five (5 ) Lanz canteens, and two (2) L". S. A. canteens, as 
issued by the Ordnance Department, I have since witnessed the fol- 
lowing test : 
No. 1. Lanz canteen, cover 3-8-inch gran, cork ; also 3-8-inch felt and 

canvas cover. 
No. 2, Lanz canteen, cover i-8-inch gran, cork : also 2-8-inch felt and 

canvas cover. 
No. 3, Lanz canteen, cover 1-8-inch gran, cork : also 3-8-inch felt and 

canvas cover. 
Xo. 4, Lanz canteen, co\-er. no gran, cork : 3-8-inch fell and also can- 
vas cover. 
No. 5, Lanz canteen, cover, n(i gran cork ; 1-2-inch felt and also can- 
vas cover. 
Nos. 7 and 8, U. S. Government canteens as issued at present. 

The seven canteens were filled with water of the same tempera- 
ture — 66 degrees F., and at the same time. 

Quantity of water in each Lanz canteen, one 45, one 46 ounces. 
All seven canteens were immersed in water for the same length 
of time — about fifteen minutes — after the lacing of each of the Lanz 
canteens had been loosened. 

The laces in the Lanz canteens were then tightened up again and 
all seven canteens suspended above the roof of a four-storied build- 
ing, where full circulation and exposure to air, light and heat, with- 
out contact, was maintained for six (6) consecutive hours. Reside 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAXTEEN. 



39 



cacli canteen hung a thermometer, from which liourly readings were 
taken and outside temperature noted and recorded. 

At 9 o'clock a. m., temperature was 90 degrees F. 

At 10 o'clock a. m., temperature was 94 degrees F. 

At 1 1 o'clock a. m., temperature was 93 degrees F. 

At 12 o'clock m., temperature was 97 degrees F. 

At r o'clock p. m., temperature was 98 degrees F. 

At 2 o'clock p. m., temperature was 99 degrees F. 

At 3 o'clock p. m.. temperature was 99 degrees F. 

After these six (6) hours' exposure, the contents of the canteens 

showed temperature as follows (a thermometer had been inserted in 

each canteen) : 

Lanz canteen. Xo. i. "j-j degrees F. 

Lanz canteen, No. 2, 78 degrees F. 

Lanz canteen No. 3, 78 degrees F. 

Lanz canteen. No. 4, 78 degrees F. 

Lanz canteen, No. 5, 'j'j degrees F. 

L^. S. canteen, 100 degrees F. 

\j. S. canteen. 102 degrees F. 

On another occasion, three (3) canteens were tested, viz.: 

Lanz canteen. No. i. 
Lanz canteen, No. 4. 
\j. S. Government canteen as issued. 

These three canteens were filled with water, 66 degrees F., and 
placed on the roof of a high building, so that one flat side of each 
canteen was exposed to the sun for seven (7) consecutive hours, 
from 8.30 a. m. to 3.30 p. m. A thermometer was placed beside each 
canteen and also inserted into each one after the seven hours' ex- 
posure. 

The temperature was noted as follows : 

8.30 a. m., outside temperature, 95 degrees F. 

9.30 a. m., outside temperature, 105 degrees F. 

10.30 a. m., outside temperature, 115 degrees F. 

11.30 a. m., outside temperature, 120 degrees F. 

12.30 p. m.. outside temperature. 125 degrees F. 

1.30 p. m., outside temperature, 125 degrees F. 

2.30 p. m.. outside temperature. 120. degrees F. 

3.30 p. m., outside temperature, T15 degrees F. 



40 



l-llSTOKV OF THE MILITARY CAXTKEN. 











IIISTOKV OF THE MILITAKV CANTEEN. 



41 



I have personally made the following tests, conducting same from my olfice, Army 
Building, St. Paul. Minn. 

TEST No. 1. 



Kind of Canlcc 



Weight 

of 
Canteen. 



No. I, U. S. Government.. 

No. 2, " " 

No. 3, Lanz, single cork and |-inch felt, can- 
vas outside 

No. 4, Lanz, |-inch felt, canvas outside 

No. 5, Reade, Arizona, saddler's felt, canvas 
outside 



Dry I Wet 



118/2 



25 i4o 

24/^ 40 



82 







Temper- 




Absorb- 


ature of 


Holds 


ent 


Water 


ounces. 


Capac- 


when 




ity. 


placed in 
Canteen. 


45 


ly, 


76 


46 


3/2 


76 


45 


15 


76- 


46 


15/2 


76 


86 


42 


76 



Temper- 
ire of 
Water at 
Conclii- 
of 

St. 



78 



Outside temperature: 



Canteens suspended over roof. The exterior cover of tach canteen was wet 
before making the test. Time of exposure, at rest, six (6) hours. 



9 a. m., 75 deg 
10 " 86 " 




II " 92 « 


¥. 


12111., 94 " 
I p. m. 76 " 


'.,• 


3 " 89 " 





TEST No. 2. 



Weight of 
Canteen. 



No 


I 


No 


2 


No 


3 


No. 


4 


No. 


5, 



U. S. Government ji6 

.- 15 

Lanz, single cork and ^-inch felt, 



No. 3, 



canvas outside. 
Lanz, %-\r\c\\. felt, canvas outside . . 
Reade, Arizona, saddler's felt, can- 
vas outside 

Lanz, XXX tin, singlecork, ^g-inch 
with waterpoof covering, ^-inch 
felt. (Loaned by Dr. A. F. Good- 
rich)..: 

Lanz, XXXX tin, ^-inch felt, no 
cork, canvas cover. (Loaned by 
Dr. A. F. Goodrich) 



25 

24^ 



18K 



34 J^ 



Holds 
ounces 



Absorb- 
ent 
Capac- 
ity. 



Tempera- 
ture of 
Water 
when 
placed in 
Canteen. 

64 
64 

64 
64 

64 

64 
64 



Tempera- 
ture of 

Water at 
Conclu- 
sion of 
Test. 



89 



76 



80 



Outside temperature: — g a. m.. So deg. F. 

10 " 74 

11 - S3 

1 2 m. , 90 
Canteens suspended at rest, above roof, where free circulation and exposure lo 

sunlight and heat, without contact, was maintained for six (6) con.secutive hours. The 
outer, or canvas, cover was saturated before making the te.st. 



F. 


I p. m. , 90 deg. F 


F. 

F. 
F. 


2 " 93 " F. 

3 " 92 " 1- 



IIISTOKV OF Tllli -MILITAKV CANTEEN. 
TEST No. '3. 



Kind of Canteen. 



Weight of 
Canteen. 



U. S. Government . 



No. I, 

No. 2, " 

No. 3, Lanz, 1 

No. 4, " I 

No. 5, Reade, j- Ai 

No. 3, Lanz, | 

No. 4, " ] 



:iibed in Test No. 2; As ii 



Absorb- 
Holds I ent 
ounces. Capac- 



IVmpera- 

ture of 

Water 

when 

placed in 

Canteen. 



S a. ni. 


76 deg. F. 


I 1 


,_ in. 


, 93 'l^k'- 1- 


9 " 


82 " V. 


2 




92 " F 


o " 


qo " F. 


3 


" 


qo " F 


I " 


02 " F. 


4 


" 


88 " J^ 


2 m.. 


93 " y- 









Outiiuu 



C'anlcens siis])ended at re^t above roof, where free circulation and exposure to 
sunlight, without contact with one another, was maintained for eight (8) consecutive 
hours. Covers were wet before making test. 



TEST No. 4. 



No. I, U. S. Government 

No. 2, " " " 

No. 3, Lanz, ] 

No. 4, " I 

No. 5, Reade, [- As described in 1 est No. 2 

N ). 3, Lanz, | 

No. 4, " ) 



Weight of 




Absorb- 


Canteen. 


Holds 








Capac- 

iiy. 


Dry 


Wet 




ozs. 


ozs. 






iVs 


in 


Test 


No. 2. 



■|'einpera- 

ture of 

Water 

when 

placed in 

Canteen. 



Tempera- 
ture of 
Water at 
Conclu- 
sion of 
Test. 



npcraturc of watcr 
(Uu-ing Test No. 4. 



Outside 



8 

9 
o 

I 

I 

3 

4 





c 


ANlEtN 


No. 2. 


No. 3. 


NO... 


7«^ 


78 


78 


76 


78 


78 


75 


7« 


78 


76 


76 


76 


79 


77 


7b 


86 


76 


76 


91 


76 


76 


92 


77 


7b 


93 


77 


76 



Canteens suspended at rest above roof, where free circulation and exposure to sun- 
liglit, williout contact with one another, was maintained for eight (8) consecutive 
hour^. Covers were dry before making test. 



HISTOKV OF 



MILIT.VRV CAXTEEN. 



43 



TEST No. 5. 



Kind of Canteen. 


Weight of 
Canteen. 


Holds 
ounces 


Absorb- 
ent 

Capac- 
ity. 


Tempera- 

ture of 

Water 

when 

placed in 

Canteen. 


Tempera- 
ture of 
Water at 
Conclu- 




Dry 
ozs. 


Wet 


sion of 
Te.st. 




As 

14 
14 


in 

20 
20 


Test 

48 
48 


No. 2. 
6 

6 
6 

6 


80 
80 
80 
80 
80 
80 
80 

85t 

85t 
85t 
85t 


104 
101 


No 2 " " 


No. 3, Lanz, | 

No. 4, " 1 

No. 5, Reade, [- Asdcscribcd in Test No. 2. 

No. 3, Lanz, | 

No. 4, " J^ 


So 
81 
80 
80 
90 
90 
86 


No 2A " 


No. 3A " " X 


Tin Flask (not covered) 




.92 



'Contents spilled before conclusion of test. 

tThese canteens were exposed one hour only, from 3 to 4 o'clock p. m. 

ICanteen No. 3 A, is a U. S. Government canteen having a leg of a woolen stocking pu 
over its covering. 

Outside temperature, and temperature of water, eacli hour, in each canteen, 
during Test No. 5. 



Hour. 


Outside 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


'lin 




I'emp. 


I. 


2. 


3- 


4- 


5- 




4- 


I A. 


2A. 


3A. 


Flask 


8 a. ni 


79 


80 


80 


80 


So 


So 


So 


So 






9 " .... 


84 


78 


78 


79 


80 


80 


79 


78 










10 " 


88 


78 


78 


78 


80 


So 


79 


78 










II " 


91 


80 


79 


80 


80 


So 


So 


80 










12 m 


94 


81 


83 


80 


82 


Si 


81 


82 










I p. m 


100 


























100 


























100 


102 


103 




82 


82 


8i 


81 


8S 


8S 


8S 


8S 


4 " .... 


97 


104 


103 




80 


81 


80 


80 


90 


90 


86 


92 



Wind, ten miles an hour during this test. Canteens were in constant motion. 
Four ounces of water taken from each canteen every hour for the first four hours. 



TEST No. 0. 



Kind of Canteen. 


Weight of 
Canteen. 


Holds 


Absorb- 
ent 
Capac- 
ity. 


■J'empera- 
ture of 
Water 
when 
placed in 
Canteen. 


Tempera- 
ture of 
Water at 




Dry 


Wet 
ozs. 


sion of 
Test. 


No. I, U. S. (Inveniinent 

No. 2, " " 


As 


give 
No 


1 

. 
n in T ests 
s. 2 an d 5. 

1 


76 98 

76 1 98 
76 j 82 

76 i So 
76 1 80 
76 82 
76 82 
76 1 98 
76 98 
76 ' 84 
76 98 


No. 3, Lanz, | 

No. 4, " 1 

No. 5, Reade, ;- As described in Test No. 2 

No. 3, Lanz, | 

No. 4, " J 


No 2A, " 


No. 3A, " " 


Tin Fla.sk (not covered) . 









44 



ISroKV OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



Outside temperature, and temperature of water, eacli hour, in each canteen, 
during Test No. 6. 





Outside 










CANTEEN. 








• 


Hour. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


No. 


J^o. 


No. 


No. 


Tin 








2. 


3- 


4. 


s. 


3- 
76 


4. 
76 


lA. 
.76 


2A. 

76 


3A. 


Flask. 


S a. m. . . 


s;> 


76 


76 


76 


76 


76 


76 


76 


9 "... 


7« 


72 


72 


74 


74 


7.S 


76 


74 


7« 


■ 74 


74 


80 


lO " ... 


82 


72 


72 


74 


74 


7S 


7S 


7S 


80 


7S 


74 


84 


II " ... 


86 


74 


7S 


74 


7S 


7=; 


71 


76 


82 


7« 


74 


86 


12 m 


86 


7« 


82 


74 


7S 


7S 


75 


76 


«S 


82 


74 


86 


I p. m . . . 


90 


84 


84 


76 


76 


76 


76 


77 


86 


86 


76 


89 


2 " ... 


92 


«q 


90 


7« 


7« 


77 


7« 


79 


qo 


90 


80 


92 


3 " ■ ■ • 


94 


Q4 


Q4 


80 


80 


7« 


80 


82 


92 


Q4 


82 


94 


4 " - - - 


92 


98 


98 


82 


80 


80 


82 


82 


92 


98 


84 


98 



During Test No. 6. all of the canteens were constantly in motion, 
due to the wind. Every hour each canteen was dipped and four (4) 
ounces of water poured out ; thus the quantity of water in each can- 
teen was hourly reduced in hulk. 

The advantage of the cork and felt comhined a^ opposed to an 
equal thickness of felt covering is scarcely appreciable. 



Further Experiment.xl Tests Made With thi 
AND the L.\nz Canteen. 



I'. 



S. CVNTEEN 



Tests by Secund Lieutenant \\ W. Healy, Eighth Infantry, and 
by A. A. Surgeon R. M. Fletcher, Jr. : 

Lieut. F. W. llealy. Eighth Lifantry, tilfed a canteen, patented 
by Mr. William Lanz, 183 Lake street, Chicago, 111., with water; 
temperature, 56 degrees F. 

The canteen was then placed against the wire fender, or spark 
arrester, screening the wood fire of the open fire-place, and allowed 
to remain there for ten (10) hours. 

At the expiration of that time the temperature of the water in 
the Lanz canteen was found to be 70 degrees. A Government can- 
teen, similarly exposed, had a temperature of 82 degrees. 

On the following day, Lieut. Healy tested the Lanz canteen, also 
a canteen, Ordnance pattern, issued to a member of Company D, 
Eighth L^. S. Infantry, in the following wise: 

Each canteen was immersed in water, temperature, 56 degrees F.. 
for about two minutes, and each canteen was then filled with water 
of the temperature named. The capacity of the Lanz canteen was 
46 fluid ounces ; that of the Government canteen 47 ounces. 

They were then placed so as to receive in equal proportion the 
direct action of a wood fire Imrning in the fire-place of the cfuarters 
occupied by Lieut. ITealy. 



HISTORY OF THR MILITARY CANTEEN. 



45 




i5cc?/e ^ 



3mi// <iy.e a^d /ead^e/' ■s/i'^f a*?d' s/reat^ far its cafria^e 
<?rr, the /}ersot7 . 



46 HISTORY OF Till-: MILITARY CAXTEEX. 

Four hours later tlic U'nipcralure of cacli canteen was taken l)y 
Acting Assistant Surgeon R. j\I. I^^lctcher, Jr., Post Surgeon, P^ort 
Assinniboine, with the following results, viz. : Lanz canteen, 70 
degrees ; Government canteen, 74 degrees. 

The canteens were then thrown into an army wagon and trans- 
ported up Beaver Creek, ten miles and back; in all, twenty (20) 
miles. 

The difference in temperature was then found to be twelve (12J 
degrees, the Lanz canteen being the lower temperature. 

The canteens were used on the following day by a party of duck 
hunters and jolted around for several hours in the sun. The dift"er- 
ence in temperature was found to be twelve (12) degrees, the Lanz 
canteen containing the more palatable water. 



I am informed that when the application for the Lanz patent No. 
655979, August 15, 1900, was pending, the Patent Office cited, as 
reference against the claims, the following patents : 

British patents to Blakeny. 1163 of 1884; 

British patents to Sothcott, 2453 of 1878; 

Italian patents to Bouffier, 10397 of June 23, 1879; 

American patent to Hiramo \\'. Hanniore. White Plains. X. V., 
296955; April 15, 1884; 

American patent to Brauer, 244374, July 19, 1881. 

The two American patents are said to l)e of the least importance, 
relating simply, Hanmore, to a water cooler comprising a can having 
its bottom and side walls covered with "a non-conducting covering 
of raw silk waste and calcined or carbonate of magnesia," and an 
outer jacket of wood ; and, Brauer. to an ice-house, or ice-box, or 
refrigerator, in box form, and having hollow w^alls packed with 
granular cork, and having an outer wall for enclosing an air space. 

The Sothcott patent showed a flask encased in either felt or 
leather. The lo\v conductivity of the cover was the reliance, the 
patentee not depending upon evaporation and not rendering it pos- 
sible to practice this method of cooling when Is used a leather cover, 
and not making any provision for retarding the evaporation should 
he saturate the felt cover 

The Bouffier patent discloses a flask having ^ covering of tresses, 
or braids, of cellular sea weed, straw or paper pulp, including a 
quantity of air, and an outer covering of cotton or linen cloth, or 
this outer covering may be of felt or rubber and made detachable for 
cleaning purposes. 

The drawings of this patent show a familiar structure, but it 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 47 

appears that the principle of action dcpendctl uixiu is entirely dilTer- 
ent, the patentee depending- simply upon the low conductivity of the 
material used, and of the air enclosed within its cells, for keeping the 
contents of the canteen cool. The patent gives no hint of an evaporat- 
ing process, nor does it describe a construction which provides for 
the practicing of any such method should it be desired. 

The Blakeny patent shows a flask, preferably of glass, having an 
inner covering of felt, and an outer covering of leather, and this 
outer cover is shown as secured by lacing. 

No advantage can be secured from a Blakeny evaporation process 
in a structure made after the specification of this patent, for the rea- 
son that the leather cover practically wholly prevents evaporation. 

It is claimed that in all other cases, except the Lanz, means were 
provided for stimulating, rather than retarding, evaporation. 

The only devices known to me for securing the cooling action by 
evaporation may be divided into three classes, viz. : 

1. Those in which an outer envelope is saturated bv a single 
application of moisture, as by dipping or sprinkling, and is then 
allowed to dry out. The present regulation army canteen is an ex- 
ample of this class. 

2. Those in which an outer envelope is continuously saturated 
by capillary action, a reservoir being supplied from which water is 
drawn by the fabric of which the envelope is composed. 

3. Those in which the receptacle itself has porous walls through 
which the liquid contents of the receptacle exude. 

A distinction between the Ordnance pattern army canteen and the 
Lanz canteen is. that one has its cover permanently attached, and 
the other has its cover openable. Owing to this difiference. there 
results a dififerent principle of action in practical use of the two 
devices. It is impracticable to easily thoroughly saturate the one, 
thus failing' to secure the benefits of a prolonged evaporative action. 
In the other it is entirely practicable to thoroughly saturate by sim- 
ply unlacing the cover and dipping the canteen and then replacing it. 

Instances of the second type of coolers, in which there is a con- 
tinuous water feed to the jacket, are found in the following U. S. 
patents : 

Bernhard Moobius, 296432, April 8, 1884, Chihuahua, Mexico. 

James Goddard Lamb, 568259, Sept. 22, 1896. Wellington, New 
Zealand. 

Kingston Gordon, 149852, April 21, 1874, Richmond, N. Y. 

John Rutten, 102595, May 3, 1870, West Chester, Pa. 

Albert McDowell, 424125, March 25, 1890, Selma, Cal. 



48 lIlSTOkV OF THl' MILITARY CAXTEEN. 

In none of these instances is the idea of retarding evaporation 
present; on the contrary, liieans are provided for stimulating it. 
Most contain suggestions that the device should be located in such 
position that there will be a circulation of air about it so that 
evaporation may be permitted. 

The third type of coolers is found in the following patents : 

William Morrow and William Symington. 415366, Nov. 19, 1889, 
Kansas City, Mo. 

Richard Kelly, 135432, Feb. 4, 1873, Red Bank, Cal. 

Charles G. Jordan. 273097, Feb. 27, 1883. Catlin, Col. 

Valentine Stuyvesant, 419230, Jan. 14, 1890, Denver, Col. 

Jahon \*. Frost, 556744, March 24, 1896, Los Angeles, Cal. 

The Frost shows a cooler made of porous material, such as terra 
cotta, so that its licjuid contents may seep through its walls, which 
are covered with asbestos. This patent shows an effort to retard 
evaporation by covering the asbestos with a layer of wool twisted 
•into cords and wound thereabout. It is not a removable cover, and, 
if applied to a canteen, would operate on a jirinciple different to 
the Lanz. 

Other patents are : 

(a) British patent to Cochran, 508, of 1869. 

(b) British patent, to Johnson, 1972, of 1888. 

( c) Americah patent, to Lazare, 36641, of Oct. 14, 1862. 

(d) American patent, to Beers, 32541, of June 11, 1859. 

(d) American patent, to Bournum, 2)7^7 Z- 

(e) American patent, to Heneage, 31 154. 

(f) American patent, to Pilger, 275697. 

(g) American patent, to Roumillat, 222158. 
(g) American patent, to Tunnions, 59875. 
(h) American patent, to Farciot, 46094. 

(h) American patent, to Bartholomae, 32744. 
(i) British patent, to Sombart, 5963, of 1883. 
(j) British patent, to Girrard, 12792, of 1889. 

(a) Flask with either felt or leather jacket. Low conductivitv 

•of the jacket only reliance for cooling action. 

(b) Flask with tightly fitting canvas cover. 

(c) Canteen made of leather, rendered waterproof, lined with 

tinfoil. 

(d) Both relate to canteens made of wood and without covering. 

(e) Compartiuent canteen. 

(f) Relates to construction of bucket. Xo outer cover. 



HISTORY OI 



49 



(g) Both relate to slof)pcrs for bottles or canteens, or the like. 

(h) Relate to the form of canteen. 

(i) Flask covered with an absorbent material adapted to be 

saturated from which there may ])e free saturation, 
(j) Cooler with a felt jacket, which dips into an ice or water- 
filled receptacle, so as to carry the moisture up by 
capillary action. No provision is made for retarding 
the evaporation. 
None of the patents herein discussed contain claims which domi- 
nate the Lanz canteen, and my conclusion is that the latter does not 
infringe any existing patent and that the rational, mechanical and 
physical principle upon wdiich it is constructed make it advisable 
to purchase a thousand or more for test and report at the hands of 
troops now serving in tropical or arctic regions. 

Tests Made at Fort Meade, S. D. 

On Oct. 26, 1900, the Post Surgeon, Fort ^leade — Samuel 
Alelville Waterhouse, Medical Dept., U. S. A. — began experimental 
tests using the Government canteen, as issued by the Ordnance 
Dept., U. S. A., and the Lanz canteen, patent of William Lanz, 183 
Lake St., Chicago, 111. 

Test No. i. 

Weight of tin flask of Government canteen, empty, 12 ounces. 

Weight of Government canteen, complete, dry. 15 ounces. 

Weight of Lanz canteen, dry, 17 ounces. 

Capacity, fluid ounces, of Government canteen, 48 ounces. 

Capacity, fluid ounces, of Lanz canteen, 40 ounces. , 

Weight of Government canteen, after thorough immersion, 17 
ounces. 

Weight of Lanz canteen after thorough immersion, 23 ounces. 

Weight of felt covering of Government canteen, dry, i ounce. 

Weight of felt covering of Government canteen, wet, 6 ounces. 

W^eight of duck covering of Government canteen, dry, 2 ounces. 

Weight of duck covering of Government canteen, wet, 3 ounces. 

Temperature of water when put into the canteens, 56 degrees F. 

Both the canteens were then placed in a hot air sterilizer used 
as an incubator, in separate compartments, at 40 degrees C, equiva- 
lent to 100 degrees F. 

After an exposure of one hour, the temperature of water in each 
canteen was as follows: Government canteen, 95 degrees F. Lanz 
canteen, 88 degrees F. 



50 



IllSTOUV OF THE MILITARY CAXTEliN. 




IT — 

Jiar/sfuht .JSadef. &e>'marry ^/umn^m P/asTr , cpuered ly i^te La/>x 
/rrei^ad uriih '/g inch Amsie.rc/atn spon^ /kit ; a/aerfable catrvascover 
Cut >n three jo>act9, hi^)f Ce/fOf. Co/i9Q't^ 4-X /"/k/^ Of.., ttt .J?CA. 



IIISTORV 01' TirR Mri.ITARY CAXTEEX. 5 1 

TisST N... 2. 

The canteens were llien replaeed in the incuhator at the same 
temperature as al)()ve, and at the expiration of another hour, tem- 
perature was as follows : ( iovernment canteen, 102 degrees ; Lanz 
canteen, 95 dei^rees. 

After another hour of similar exposure the temperature was: 
Government canteen, 132 de,q;rees ; Lanz canteen, 1 r8 degrees. 

Test Xo. 3. 

Both canteens dry, no immersion, were filled with water at a 
temperature of 147 degrees and placed in a cold storage room where 
the uniform temperature of 38 degrees F. existed. 

Observations — After first hour. Government canteen, no de- 
grees, F. 

.Vfter first hour, Lanz canteen, J 16 degrees, F. 

After second hour, Government canteen, 90 degrees F. 

After second hour. Lanz canteen, 108 degrees F. 

After third hour. Government canteen, 74 degrees F. 

After third hour, Lanz canteen, 97 degrees F. 

Test No. 4. 

Conditions — The canteens were filled with water, the tempera- 
ture of which was 50 degrees, and immersed until the covers were 
saturated. They were then placed in a hot air sterilizer, the door 
of which w^as kept open. The thermometer directly in contact witli 
the hot air registered a temperature of 127 degrees almost uniformly. 

The observations were as follows : 

After a lapse of one hour the temperature was. Government. 70 
degrees ; Lanz, 66 degrees. 

After the lapse of two hours, the temperature was. Government, 
78 degrees ; Lanz, 72 degrees. 

.\fter the lapse of three hours, the teniperature was. Government, 
82 degrees ; Lanz, 76 degrees. 

Test No. 5. 

Conditions of this test A'ere as follows : Canteens were iiumcrsed 
in water till covers were thoroughly saturated. 

Forty (40) ounces of water of 56 degrees ¥. was placed in each 
canteen. The canteens were then suspended four inches al)ove a 
radiator in the hospital. Fort Meade, S. D., for eight (8) hours 
and the radiated heat maintained for that period i^etween 95 degrees 
F. and 98 degrees F. 



[^2 lllSTOm' OF TTTE MlLlTAin' CAXTEEX. 

F(ir tlif last tw't cx])()snr(.'s llic canU'cns wvw |)larr(l in direct 
CMiitacl with tlu' radiator, a nnifonn teiiiiK'ratnrr of <)<) <k-iiTces 
F. being maintained. 

The observations, made hourly, show the foUowing : 

Expiration of the first hour, 10:45 '^- "^^ < ''Overnment canteen. 
60 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen, 60 degrees F. 

Expiration of the second hour, 11 ;45 a. m.. (Government canteen. 

62 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen. 62 degrees F. 

Expiration of the third hour, 12:45 P- "i- Government canteen. 

63 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen^ 63 degrees F. 

Expiration of the fourth hour, i :45 p. m.. Government canteen. 

64 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen, 64 degrees F. 

Expiration of the fifth hour, 2:45 p. m.. Government canteen. 
64 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen. 64 degrees F. 

Expiration of the sixth hour, 3:45 p. m., ( iovernment canteen, 
66 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen, 65 degrees F. 

Expiration of the seventh hour, 4:45 p. m., Government canteen, 
74 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen, 68 degrees F. 

Expiration of the eighth hour, 5:45 p. m.. (Tovernment canteen. 
86 degrees F. ; Lanz canteen 70 degrees F. 

Under ordinary circumstances the Government canteen wiH keep 
water as cool as the Lanz for some hours ; but after the water 
absorbed by the U. S. canteen has evaporated, tiie Lanz will kee[) 
water at a lower temperature than the U. S. canteen. 



Test AL\L)F. at Fort Sxi:i.i.i\<;, ^Iixx. 

By Captain A. E. Bradley, Asst. Surgeon, U. S. A., Post Sur- 
geon, with the U. S. A. canteen as issued by the Ordnance Dept., 
and the Lanz canteen, patented by William Lanz, 183 Lake St., 
Chicago, Ilk, Nov. 7 to 13. 1900: 

Data: 

Weight of the felt covering, i ounce. 

Weight of the canvas covering, 2 ounces. 

Weight of the felt covering, 6 ounces. 

Weight of the duck covering, 3 ounces. 

Weight of the tin flask, 10 to 11 ounces. 

Weight of Government canteen, dry, 13 t(T 15 ounces. 

Weight of Government canteen, with covers on, after immersion 
10 minutes, 14 ounces. 

Weight of Government canteen, with covers on, after immersion 
12 hours. 18 ounces. 



HISTORY OF THi: MILITARY CAXTEEN. 



53 



Capacity of the (ItncnuiK-nt caiilcc'ii, 42 lo 47 ounces. 
Weight ot the Lanz canteen, (h'\ . 16 ounces. 
Weight of the Lanz canteen, wet. 10 minutes" immersion, 
ounces. 

Capacity of the Lanz canteen, 42 ounces. 

Weight of canvas cover, Lanz canteen, dry. 3 ounces. 

Weight of canvas cover, Lanz canteen, wet, 4 ounces. 



EXPERIMENT No. 1. 

Time and conditions of exposure. — The canteens being filled with water, temper- 
ature 54 deg., F., were suspended above a direct-indirect radiator for eleven (11) hours, 
and temperature of air and each canteen taken hourly. During the succeeding two 
(2) hours the canteens were placed in contact with the radiator. The following results 
were obtained, the same thermometer being used: 

i tempekatuke! ' 



8 a. m . 

9 " 



12 ni. 

1 p. 1 

2 '• 

3 " 

4 '■ 

5 " 



At 6 o'clock the canteens were placed in direct 

7 p. m 

8 " 



1 p. m. 

2 " . 

3 " ■ 

4 " - 

5 " ■ 

6 " . 

7 " - 



EXPERIMENT 

Conditions same as in F.x 





Govt. 


Lanz 


Lanz 


Ah-. 


Canteen. 


Canteen. 


Canteen. 




All Wet. 


All Wet. 


Wet. 


66 


54 


54 


54 


70 


56 


56 


54 


72 


57 


57 


S8 


72 


58 


57 


59 


86 


60 


59 


62 


J-'o 


61 


59 


62 


72 


59 


58 


62 


73 


58 


ss 


62 


67 


57 


57 


62 


68 


57 


57 


61 


72 


58 


57 


62 


direct 


contact 


witii ra 


diator: 




72 


66 


69 


80 


82 


70 


74 


No. 2. 








periment 


No. I. 






84 


56 


56 


56 


86 


60 


59 


56 


06 


63 


63 


6? 


89 


64 


65 


66 


94 


70 


66 


68 


92 


72 


66 


68 


92 


73 


66 


68 



The canteens, henig tilled \\\tn wate 
the kitchen range in the hoixl designed t 
ations made hourly: — 



EXPERIMENT No. '3. 

fdled \\ itli water, tein]ierature 54 deg., were suhpeiided above 



from the kitchen, and ol)serv- 



1 Govt. Lanz I Lanz 

Air. j Canteen. Canteen. Canteen. 
AH Wet. All Wet. Wet Felt. 



8 a. m 1 20 

9 " ' no 

ID " I ;o 



56 
84 
1 10 

128 



56 
82 
104 
108 



56 

74 

102 



54 



niSTUKV Ol' THE MILITAKV CANTEEN. 



EXPERIMENTS Nos. 4 and .">. 

Ill thoe cxpcriiHCiUs the caiUeeiis wcix- jilaccd in an inLiibalcir ami ob^civalion 
made liDuiIy. Tlic avciai;e leniperaUne of llie in-.uhator, a closed box, \\ as tjodeg., I'" 
Tlic lesiills showed practically the same temperature at all hours for all canteens. 



EXPERIMENT No. G. 

. A Government canteen and a Lanz canteen were thoroughly wet, and filled with 
water, temperature 58 deg., F. They were placed side by side on blocks 01 wood in 
an oven of the kitchen range, not touching the sides of the oven. The door was left 
open. The following observations were noted: — 

TKMl'ERATUKK. 





lime. 


Air. 


Go 


vt Canteen. 


Lanz Canteen. 




300 

324 
284 


1 


58 
1 88 


5« 
98 











EXPERIMENT No. 7. 

Three Government canteens and one Lanz canteen, coverings, of all, dry, were 
suspended out of doors in a tree about thirty feet from the hosj)ital. At 10 o'clock a. 
ni., temperature of air 40 deg., F., they were filled with hot water, temperature 126 
deg., F. Hourly observations were made as follows: — 







•JK.Ml'RKATURE. 




Time. 


Air. 


Covern 

No. I. 


men^an^ens. 

No. 2. No. 3. 


Lanz 
Canteen. 


■ 


40 
41 
42 

3S 

36 


126 

9^ 
81 
6S 

5> 

47 


126 126 

92 74 
:6 i 58 
62 1 47 
55 ' 42 
48 • 39 
46 ! 37 


126 




106 


, „l 


90 

77 
70 
62 






, .c 




58 







IIISTOKV (JF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



55 





TT 



~Srnf/« jat'zce rrfciai, ti^rih s6zel rfrrva attichecC to an a/ufni^turrr, /uj, 
(^zolgA itvo p?eces) rrueiecC &oihe f/aik 6y mea/rs oFit^fo rit/e.i'&. 
^uZmr^ecC Itf ihe LariA ^^. Co-, /t^ /£?/f-e 3^. Chr'cQjo.I//. 
CQpaC7i^.'4'f- f/c<fcC ox. 
^ Qca/e.- ^ . 




3cak /z 

ArrOkTS sJrotr n-Trete leoTraje ieyan 
i/.S./frmy ffeftt/aitd/? Sefi/fce Can£ee/t 
Coy^actt^ 43 ox. J7uUet, /ice 




Canlcf^n c,„ol. Strap ^or i/.3. CaoaJfif 
as prescnied 6y GO. 73./I.S.0. /SSS 
/nur,Kfaciu>-eA iif. (n- /-"or. the OrJ..Oe/>fM.i*. 

W: Snap //eei. 

V: 5?iolLi7f Loop 

U: Black Collar Uaihei- 



S6 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



Ooeii Air Tests Made at Headquarters Dept. of Dakota, 

TEST No. 1. 





TEMPERATURE. 


Time. 


Air. 


Government Canteens. 


Lanz 
Canteen. 




No. 1. 


No. 2. 


No. 3. 


loa m .. . 


40 

41 

42 
3S 
38 
36 
36 


126 
98 
81 
65 

5<^ 
51 
47 


126 

76 

66 
46 


126 

74 
58 
47 
42 
39 
37 


126 




100 


12 m . - - - 


90 

77 




2 " . .. 




4 " 


58 









TEMPERATURE. 






Air. 


Government Canteens. 


Lanz 

No. 
4- 




No. 


No. 
lA. 


No. 3A. 
Stocking Leg 
Over Canteen. 




16 

18 
18 
20 
18 
18 
18 
19 


172 
112 
78 
58 
46 
36 
32 
32 


172 
122 

88 
68 
54 
44 
38 
32 


172 
126 
96 
78 
64 

It 
40 


172 
132 
102 


ID " 


II " . 




90 

56 
50 




2 " 


^ " 







TEST No, 3. 





TEMPERATURE. 




■ 




Dubuque 












U.S. Army 


Stamp. & 


German 


Lanz 


Lanz 


rime. 




Ord. 


Enamel 


Aluminum 


Aluminum 


Tin 




Pattern. 


Co., Par- 


Flask. 


Flask. 


Flask. 






Capacity 


ker Filter 


Capacity 


Capacity 


Capacity 






430ZS.'* 


Capacity 

500ZS.-" 


250ZS.** 


440ZS.** 


360ZS.** 


Q a. m .. 


5 
4 
6 


175 
126 


175 
104 
50 
32 


17s 
96 
44 
32 . 

r 


175 
154 
138 
112 


175 
156 
122 






78 
50 
34 
34 
32 
32* 




6 


102 




S 


94 

64 
56 


86 








70 
60 


^ a 


9 
10 






J „ 

4 






50 



'.Slush ice formed -frozen —withdrawn. 
"Fluid (Troy) ounces, not avoirdupois. 

A Preston Mess Kit was also included in T' 



12 m 124 " 



3 " -- 


..lood 
.. 82 
.. 70 


F 



58 dcy., K. 



history of the military canteen. 5/' 

Open Air Tests Made of Canteens and Canteen Flasks at 

Headouarieks, Dei'aktiment of Dafvota, Saint 

Paul. Minnesota. 

To facilitate reference, the follozeiiig alf^liabetical i)ule.v is adopted. 

A. — U. S. Army Regulation Service Canteen. Ordnance Pattern : 

Double Cover felt and canvas. Capacity, 43 fluid ounces, 
weight 14 ounces, avoirdupois. (See cut A.) 

A-i. — L'. S. Arni}- Regulation Canteen; Double Cover felt and 
canvas. Capacity. 48 fluid ounces. Weight, empty, covers 
en and dry, 14 ounces, avoirdupois. Weight, empty, covers 
on and wet, 20 ounces, avoirdupois. 

AA. — U. S. Army Regulation Canteen, manufactured at Rock Island 
Arsenal, 1900 : Double Cover ; inner of Petersham felt, 
outer of dyed duck or canvas. Capacity, 44 fluid ounces. 
Weight, covers on and dry, empty, 12 and f ounces, avoir- 
dupois. \\'eight of tin flask, without covers, empty, 9 and 
\ ounces, avoirdupois. 

B. — U. S. Army Regulation Service Canteen, Ordnance Pattern: 

Double Cover felt and canvas, having also a woolen stock- 
ing leg drawn over it. Capacity, 45 fluid ounces. Weight 
16 ounces. (See cut 15. ) 

BB. — Three views. (See cut BB.) Combination Canteen and 
Filter. Canteen is the regulation tin flask and dou- 
ble cover, made at Rock Island Arsenal, October, 1898. 
with a specially wide mouth to accommodate the Mrs. 
Caroline Parker filter. Capacity, filter in, 42 ounces, 
avoirdupois. Fluid ounces, 40. Weight, filled, filter in, 
filled, covers on and dry, 59 ounces, avoirdupois. Weight, 
filter in, filled, covers on. after ten (10) minutes' immersion, 
64 ounces, avoirdupois. Weight of the tin flask, no cover, 
empt}-, filter out, 9 and 'i ounces, avoirdupois. 

C: —Dubuque Stamping & Enamel Co. Canteen (with Parker 
Filter in) : No cover. Capacity. 50 ounces. Weight 22 
ounces. 

CC— Seven views. (See cuts C. CC. CCC.) Enameled Metal 
Canteen Flask, bought by the U. S., January, 1900, from 



58 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

Dubuque. Iowa, Enameling- Co. Capacity, 44 and f ounces. 
Weight, filled, covers on and dry, 64 and ^ fluid ounces, 
avoirdupois. Weight, filled, covers on, after ten (10) 
minutes' immersion, 75 ounces, avoirdupois. Weight of 
the enameled flask, empty, no covers on, 16 and ^ ounces, 
avoirdupois. 

D. — Karlsruhe, Baden, (iermany, Aluminum Flask: No cover. 

Capacity, 25 ounces. Weigiit, 5 ounces. (See cut D. ) 

E. — U;. S. Army Regulation Service Tin Flask, Ordnance Pat- 

tern, no cover. Capacity, 45 ounces. Weight, 12 ounces. 
(See cut E.) 

F. — .Vluminum Flask, circular, made in Newark, X. J. Covered 

by the Lanz method, double cover, felt and canvas. Ca- 
pacity, 44 ounces. Weight, 16 ounces. (See cut F.) 

G. — Lanz Tin Flask Canteen, circular. Covered by the Lanz 

method, ^ inch felt and openable canvas cover. Capacity, 
36 ounces. Weight, 25 ounces. (See cut G, four views.) 

H. — Arizona Canteen. Covered with saddler's felt, also by several 
thicknesses of flannel, and an openable canvas cover, Lanz 
method. Capacity, 87 ounces. Weight, 34 ounces. (See 
cutH.) 

t, — Preston Mess Kit, Complete. Double cover, felt and canvas. 
Capacity, 46 ounces. Weight, 37 ounces. 

K. — Karlsruhe, Baden, Germany, Aluminum Flask. Covered by 
the Lanz method, f inch felt, and openable canvas cover. 
Capacity, 43 ounces. Weight. 15 ounces. (See cut K.) 

L. — Karlsruhe. Baden, Germany, Aluminum Canteen, with carry- 
ing strap. Covered by the German method, single felt. 
Capacity. 60 ounces. Weight, 14 ounces. (See cut L. ) 

M. — Newark, N. J., Aluminum Canteen Flask, circular. No cover. 
No solder said to lie used. Capacity, 48 ounces. Weight, 
8 ounces. 

MM. — Newark. N. J.. Aluminum Canteen, oblong shape, no seams 
or solder said to be used. Weight of naked flask. 9 and :| 
ounces. Capacity, 42 fluid ounces. Weight, filled, cover 
on and dry, 56 ounces, avoirdupois. Removable single 



Hisroin' ()|- rill-; miliiarn" (.■.\\Ti':iix. ^ij 

cover, felt. laced i']) on one side only. Lanz method: lii,L;Ii 
collar. 

N. — Newark, X. J., Aluminum Circular Canteen I'lask. Xo 
cover. Xo solder said to be used. Capacity, 32 ounces. 
Weight, 6 and ^ ounces. 

NX. — Xewark, X. J., Aluminum Canteen, oblong- shape, no seams 
or solder said to be used, identical with "MM" except 
capacity. Weight of naked flask, 7 and | ounces. Capacity, 
38 and ^ fluid ounces. Weight, dry. cover on, empty, cork 
in, 8 and ^ ounces, avoirdupois. Weight, filled, cover drv, 
49 ounces avoirdupois. Single cover same as "MM." 

C). — Xewark, X'. [.. Aluminum Circular Canteen Flask. Xo cover. 
Xo solder said to be used. Capacity, 16 ounces. Weight, 
3 and ^ ounces. (See cut O.) 

!'• — Reymond and Gottlob Aluminum Canteen. Single felt cover. 
Capacity, 29 ounces. Weight, 8 ounces. (See cut P, four 
views. ) 

U- — Lanz Tin Flask Canteen. Covered by Lanz method, -|- indi 
felt, and openable canvas cover. Capacity, 45 fluid ounces. 
Weight. 19 ounces. (See cut G, four views.) 

R. — Karlsruhe, Baden, Germany, Aluminum Flask. Covered l\v 
the Lanz method, 4-8 inch wool felt, and openable canvas 
cover. Capacity, 45 fluid ounces. Weight, 15 ounces. 

S. —Lanz Circular Canteen. Tin Flask. Covered by the Lanz 
method, 4-8 inch wool felt, and openable canvas cover. 
Capacity, 39 ounces. Weight, 19 ounces. (See cut G, 
four views.) 

T.— Lanz Circular Canteen. Tin Flask. Covered by the Lanz method. 
4-8 inch Amsterdam sponge woven felt, and openable can- 
vas cover, three pieces canvas, high collar. Capacity, 39 
ounces. Weight, 19 ounces. 

L^ —Karlsruhe, Baden. German\-. Aluminum Flask. Covered by 
the Lanz method, § inch Amsterdam sponge woven felt, and 
openable canvas cover, three pieces canvas, high collar. 
Capacity. 42 ounces. A\Vight, 17 ounces. (See cut I'.) 

'^^ — Regulation Aluminum Canteen, Germany Army Pattern, 1899. 
Manufactured by Carl Berg, Eveking, Westphalia, Ger- 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 





3cok,' /^ 



HISTORY OF THE NnLITARV CANTEEN. 



61 



many. Covered with grayish felt clotli, single tiiiekness, 
provided with black leather loops and straj^s. Capacity, 25 
ounces. \\'eight, 7 and | ounces. ( See cut \'. ) 

W. — Karlsruhe, Baden, Germany, Naked Aluminum Flask. 
Weight, 9 ounces. Capacity, 44 fluid ounces. Single piece 
metal, with steel rings attached to an aluminum lug (each 
two pieces), riveted to the flask by means of two rivets. 
( See cut W. ) 

X. — Karlsruhe, Baden. Germany. Naked Aluminum, single piece 
flask. Weight, 9 ounces. Capacity. 44 fluid ounces. Pro- 
vided with stirrup shaped loops clamped to the flask bv 
means of four rivets. (See cut X.) 

Type of Wooden Canteen, used in the United States .-\nTiv, pat- 
tern of 1812, and during our second war with England. (From a 
tracing furnished by the Quartermaster General. V. S. Armv). One 
view. 

Tracing furnished by the Quartermaster General V. S. Army, 
of the type of tin flask canteen covered with cloth, used in the United 
States Army. 1848-1861. 



TEST No. 30. 





Outside 
Tempera- 
ture. 


TEMPERATURE OF WATER IN CANTEENS. 


Hour. 


Each Canteen Being Filled to its Capacity. 




A 


B C 


D 


E 


V 


G 


H ; 1 


10 a. m... 

11 " ... 

12 m 

1 p. m... 

2 " ... 


1 

8 
8 

8 


5^ 

32 


54 1 54 
48 1 32 
36 i * 


54 
32 


54 

r 


54 
44 
34 
32 


54 
44 
36 
32 


54 
52 
44 

$ 

.\3 


54 
46 
41 
34 
32 
32 



TEST No. 31 



Outside 
Temp. 



9:00 a.m. +10 



iq:oo " .. 


10 


10:30 a. m. 


10 


1 1 :oo " 


10 


11:30 " 


12 


12:00 m... 


12 


12:30 p. m. 


12 



'I'emperaiure of Water in Canteens. 



Each canteen being filled to its capacity. 



52 



D 


E 


F 


G 


H 


I 


^ 


52 


52 


52 


52 


52 


52 


S2 






42 


3b 


42 


42 


3b 






36 


36 


38 


42 


36 






36 


36 


38 


40 


32 






33 


32 


37 


35 


32 






32 


32 


34 


33 


32 






32 


32 


32 


32 


32 



*Leaky . 



62 



HISTORY <)1 



11 F. MILTTARV CANTEEN. 



'I'cmpciature ofWatei-in Canteens. 



I -.30 p 

2:30 

3:00 

3:30 

4:00 

4:30 

5:00 



Outside 
j Temp. 



8:45^ 

o;4.s 
10:45 

1 1 :45 

12:451 

1:45 

2:45 

3:45 



I.eaky. 



Uiantity of water (36 ozs.) .same in each canteen. 
H I i K 



S6 



56 56 

48 i 38 

44 i 42 

38 39 

36 36 

34 32 

32 32 



TEST No. 33. 



Temperatureof Water in Canteens. 



Quantity of \ 



(36 ozs.) in each canteen. 



G H 



K 



112 

88 

68 

56 

48 

42 I 

38 

34 



TEST No. .'{4. 



I'emperature of Water iu Canteens 



8:45 a. m 

9:45 " 

10:45 " 

1 1 :45 " 

12:45 p. m 

1 :45 " 

2:4.S '' 

3 ••45 " 



Outside 
Temp. 



Quantity of water same in each cinteen. 



90 I 94 



TEST No. 35. 



Temperature of Water i 



8:40 a. 
9:40 ' 
10:40 ' 
11:40 ' 
12:40 p. 
1:40 ' 
2:40 ' 
3:40 ' 
4:40 ' 



Outside 
I Temp . 



Quantity 


of water (36 


ozs.) 


same 


neach 


canteen. 


1! 


C 


D 


E 


F 


G 


H 


I 


K 


ii6 


116 






116 


116 


ti6 


116 


116 


90 


66 






9S 


100 


94 


98 


96 


76 


SO 




82 


88 


84 


86 


82 


04 


42 






72 


79 


74 


75 


72 


S8 


40 






64 


72 


68 


67 


64 


S2 


41 






ss 


66 


62 


62 


59 


SO 


41 






S4 


62 


S« 


56 


56 


48 


40 






.S2 


,ss 


54 


52 


.52 


44 


3« 






48 


54 


52 


50 


49 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



63 



TEST No. 36. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



J. our. <;'j't-d. 

lemp. 

8:30 a. m +25 

9:30 " 26 

10:30 " 28 

" =30 " 30 

12:30 p. m I 32 

1:30 " 32 

2:30 " 32 

3:30 " 32 

4--30 " I 32 





Qu 


antity 


A 


13 


C 


ii6 


116 


116 


72 


86 


56 


54 


70 


40 


44 


60 


34 


3« 


52 


^2 


36 


46 


32 


35 


40 


32 


34 


40 


32 


32 


3t) 


32 



of water [-!,6 ozs.) 



in each canteen 



JLL 



F 1 G 1 H 


I 


1<. 


116 


n6 


ii6 


116 


116 


94 


96 


92 


92 


qo 


80 


84 


80 


80 


76 


68 


74 


70 


70 


68 


60 


64 


62 


62 


68 


54 


60 


56 


54 


54 


48 


54 


52 


50 


48 


44 


50 


48 


46 


44 


42 


48 


46 


44 


42 



TEST No. 37. 



|Outside 
I Temp. 



8:35 a. m 
9:35 " 
10-35 " 
11:35 " 
12:35 p. m 

2:35 " 
3:3s " 
4:35 " 



'J'emperature of Water in Canteens and Flasks 



Each Canteen and Flask filled to its capacity. 



*Leaky. 



[16 116 

56 60 

38 40 

36 38 

38 38 

38 38 

40 40 

40 40 

40 40 



F 


G 


H 


I 


K 


116 


116 


116 


u6 


116 


*q6 


94 


103 


99 


91 


84 


82 


92 


84 


78 


72 


72 


86 


74 


70 


66 


66 


78 


66 


62 


60 


62 


74 


62 


5S 


58 


56 


72 


58 


56 


54 


54 


06 


56 


52 


52 


52 


64 


52 


50 



TEST No. 38. 



8=35 ^- "1- 
9:35 " ■ 

10:35 " . 

11:35 " . 

12:35 p. m. 
• 1:35 " - 
2:35 " ■ 
3:35 " ■ 
4:35 " ■ 



Outside 
Temp. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens and Flasks 



Each Canteen and Flask filled 1 



TEST No. 39. 



8:15 n. m. 

9:15 " . 
10:15 " . 
11:15 " . 
12:15 p. ni . 

1:15 " . 

2:15 " . 

3:15 " - 

_4^i5 j; J 

*Leaky. 



Outside 
Temp- 



Temperature of Water in Canteens and Flasks. 
Each Canteen and Flask having 36 ozs. hot water. 



D 



64 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 40. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Outside 
Temp. ' 



Quantity of water (36 ozs.) same in each canteen. 



S:4S a. m 
9:45 " 
10:45 " 
1 1 :45 " 
12:45 p. m 
I =45 " 
2:45 " 
3:45 " 



96 96 96 



12 


68 


74 


42 


14 


48 


.SO 


32 


14 


3« 


4b 


32 


14 


32 


32 


32 


14 


32 


32 


32 


14 


32 


32 


32 


13 


32 


32 


32 



TEST No. 41. 



8:30 a. m . 

9:30 " . 
10:30 " . 
11:30 " . 
12:30 p. m . 

1:30 " . 

2:30 " . 

3:30 " . 

4:30 " . 



*Leaky. 



Outside 
Temp. 



Temperature of Water 



Quantity of water (36 ozs ) same in each canteen. 



98 , 98 

68 74 

52 5« 

40 46 



98 98 

78 80 

66 66 

56 54 

48 48 

42 44 

40 40 

38 38 

36 36 



TEST No. 42. 





Out- 
side 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


Quantity of water 36 ozs., exceptin flasks "N" and "O," in the main filled to their 




Tern. 


caoacity. 




A 


B 


^ 


D 


E !•' 


G 


H 


I 


K 


L 


IM 


N 





8:15 a. m. 


+ 24 


Q4 


Q4 


04 




1*94 


04 


04 


04 


04 


04 


04 


04 


04 


9:15 " 


24 


68 


74 


48 




1 78 


82 


76 


78 


76 


64 


44 


44 


36 


10:15 " 


22 


52 


60 


34 




66 


70 


66 


66 


68 


48 


32 


32 


32 


11:15 " 


22 


40 


50 


32 






5b 


62 


5b 


5b 


58 


40 


32 


32 


32 


12:15 p. m. 


22 


36 


42 


32 






48 


54 


50 


50 


50 


34 


32 


32 


32 


1:15 " 


22 


32 


40 


32 






42 


50 


44 


44 


44 


32 


32 


32 


+ 


2:15 " 


22 


32 


32 


32 






38 


44 


40 


40 


40 


32 


32 


32 




3:15 " 


22 


32 


32 


32 






34 


42 


3^ 


5b 


3b 


32 


32 


32 




4:15 " 


26 


32 


32 1 32 


' 


_32_ 


_3b_ 


38 


_32_ 


32 


_3_2__ 


32 


32_ 





'Leaky. + Frozen. 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

TEST No. i:;. 



65 





Out 










Temperature 


f Wat 


er in Canteens. 












Quantity in each (36 ozs ) the same, except in Flasks "N," "O" and "P," which v 


/ere 




- 


filled to their capacity. 






A 


H 


c 


D 


E 


F 


^ 


" 


I 


K 


L 


M 


N 





P 


a, m. 


































«:i5 


+ 4 


94 


94 


94 






+94 


94 


94 


94 


94 


94 


94 


94 


94 


94 


Q:I5 


b 


04 


70 


42 






7b 


7b 


72 


7^ 


74 


bo 


42 


42 


32 


b2 


10:15 


8 


4b 


52 


32 






60 


64 


62 


b2 


bo 


42 


32 


32 


32 


44 


11:15 

p. m. 
12.15 


8 


34 


42 


32 






48 


54 


50 


50 


50 


32 


32 


32 




34 


8 


32 


34 


32 






40 


48 


44 


44 


42 


32 


32 


32 




32 


1:15 


8 


32 


32 


32 






32 


40 


30 


3(> 


3<^ 


32 


32 


* 




32 


2:15 


10 


3^ 


32 


32 






32 


34 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 






32 


3'i5 


12 


32 


3^ 


^>^ 




32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 








4:15 


,2 32 


32 32 




32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 









TEST No. 44. 





Out 
^iide 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


Conditions same as in Test No 43, except Flasks "D", "N". "0"and "P" 


which werefilled. 




A 


1! 


c 


D E 


F 





H 


I 


JL 


i> 


_^ 


N 





P 


a. m. 
















8:15 


+14 


lod 


106 


1 06 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


106 


9:15 


IS 


72 


78 


.so 


50 


.S4 


t8o 


86 


84 


86 


84 


68 


48 


46 


38 


66 


10:25 


22 


S4 


b2 


34 


32 




bb 


72 


72 


72 


70 


SO 


34 


S2 


32 


SO 


11:15 

p. m. 
12:15 


2b 


44 


52 


32 


32 


32 


56 


64 


b2 


b2 


b2 


42 


32 


32 


32 


42 


30 


40 


36 


32 


32 


32 


50 


58 


56 


.S6 


.S4 


38 


32 


32 


32 


38 


1:15 


32 


3<3 


42 


32 


32 


32 


4b 


.S2 


.S2 


.S2 


.SO 


3b 


32 


32 


33 


3b 


2:15 


34 


3b 


40 


32 


32 


32 


42 


.SO 


48 


48 


46 


36 


32 


32 


32 


3b 


3:15 


34 


3^ 


3^ 


32 


32 


34 


40 


48 


48 


48 


46 


36 


32 


32 


32 


3b 


4:15 


34 


3^ 


3!^ 


32 


34 


34 


3S 


4b 


44 


44 


42 


3b 


33 


33 


32 


3b 



TEST No. 45. 





Out 

side 
T. 










lemperature of Water in Canteens. 










Hour. 


Conditions same as in Test Xo. 44. 




A 


B 1 C 

1 


D 


E 


F 





H 


I 


K 


L 


M 


N 





P 


a.m. 


































8:25 


-TO 


100 


100 


100 


ICO 


100 


100 


100 


100 


100 




100 


100 


100 


100 


100 


9:25 


8 


68 


72 


36 


40 


32 


t74 


80 


80 


78 




.Sb 


36 


36 


32 


58 


10.25 


6 


42 


S2 


32 


32 




S6 


66 


64 


62 




3b 


32 


32 




40 


11:25 


.S 


32 


38 


32 






42 


54 


52 


48 




32 


32 






32 


p. m. 


































12:25 


4 


32 


32 i * 






32 


44 


42 


38 




32 


32 






32 


1:25 


4 


32 


32 








32 


32 


32 


32 




32 


32 






32 


2:25 


2 


32 


32 








32 


32 


32 


32 




32 










3:2s 


2 


32 


32 








32 


32 


32 


32 




32 










4:25 


2 


32 


32 








32 


32 


32 


32 




32 









*Leaky. tFrozen. 



G6 



iii.roin- OF Till-: Mii.ri-AKV caxtf-RN. 



cfce 



-5 -»^/rt // c/je/7i/^ 




Infuse nc^L S'arth 




Har/sruAe ,JBaelen . ^efmaf^i/ ' ^<^^^ /f/n/rr//n</7t ^/rrf/e /y/ece /yitsA,, 
prer'o^i , 9 ox. Capacfiy -^-^ f/uid' ox. trrdh st/rru/a shaped /c»joa c/amjoe£ 
to the f/aa/c hy f^ea^s of /o:4rr/ycis. <5fi/rrriied /or tes^ iy the ia»^ 



3ca/€.- /i 



HISTORY OI 



Mll.n'Ain' CAXTEEX'. 



TEST No. 1(1. 



s 


lo a. 1 


9 


lO " 


lO 


lO " 


II 


lO " 


12 


lO ).. 


I 


lo ■' 


2 


lO " 


3 


lO " 


4 


lO " 




tI'Vozc 



Temper 



Water in Canteen. 



f]^,'^; ; (Juantity (45 . 



.) being ihe snr 
"O" and-P 



1) E I F I (; I H I 1 K ; L 



I02II02 I02 I02 I02 



76: 3« 3^ 32 

5<S 321 32 t 

t f ' I 

3- I i 
t \ \t 



J 102 


102 


102 102 


- 7X 


82 


80 80 


60 


66 


66 6n 


46 


52 


52 52 


34 i 


42 


44 42 


32 


34 


3S 36 


1 32 


32 


32 32 


32 


32 


32 32 


32I 


32 


32I 32 



N I O 



102 102 

34' 32 
32 32 
t t 



102 102 

32! 78 

32 66 
32, 52 
32, 42 
36 
32 
32 
32 



During Test No. 46 the Duhuque enameled canteen froze after two hour.s exposure 
and burst open at the seams along the edges, during the next hour. It had forty-five 
(45) fluid ounces of water, temperature 102 deg., F., placed in it at 8:10 a. m. The 
variations of air temperature were, (observations made hourly), as follows: -10 deg. ; 
-8 deg. ; -6 deg. The temperature of tlie contents of the canteen fell from 102 deg. to 
38 deg. after onehour'sexposure;at theexpiration of thesecond hour the fluid dropped 
to 32 deg. During this test, the enamel splintered cff* around the edges; liiile blisters 
of enamel, like small volcanoes, bubbled up, and ]ialchesof the enamel blew off, expos- 
ing the metallic base. The cause was simple. The Dubuque Stam])ingand Enamel 
Co. canteen is a combination of mineral and metal; the metal contracted; result, disin- 
tegratii>n. (See illustration ). 

TEST No. 17. 



Temperature of Water in Ca 



(^uaiuity (45 fluid ozs.) being the same in each, e.xcept in "D," "K," "G 
I "N" and "O," which were filled. 



M' 



<S:i 
9:1 
IO:I 
II :l 
12:1 
1:1 
2:1 

3:1 
4:1 



5 a. m . , 



80 
60 

4^ 
42 

I 3^ 
34 

I 32 

I 32I 



80 *8q 



80 80 80 

38 68 74 

32 56; 64 

32 4S 3^ 

32: 42 52 

32 4o| 48 

32; 381 46 



32; 36 42 38I 42 40 
321 34I 40I 381 40! 381 



80! 80 

(>\ 34 

52 32 
42. 32 
40 32 
Z^' 32 
34, 32 
32 32 
32i 32 



|8o 

\ 72 

i 64 

I 58 

i 52 

! 48 
I 46 
I 44 
I 40 



*Leaky. tFrozen. 



TEST No. 48. 



8:io a. ni 

g:iO " 
10:10 " 
1 1:10 " 
i2:iO]). m. 

1:10 " . 

2:10 " . 

3:10 " . 

4:10 " . 



Out- 
side 
Temp 



+ 14 

14 



Quantity of water (45 fluid o 
"F.-'-G," -xN. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



). same in each canteen, except in "A," "D" 
"O" and '•P," which were filled. 



1^1 



I I K I L j M N I O 



80 


80 


80 


80 


* 


70 


68 


72 


68 


60 


ci8 62 


56 


S2 


50| 52 


48 


44 


44I 4b 


42 


36 


40i 40 


32 


34 


3(^138 


f 


32 


34 3^ 


32 32^ 32 



80 80 8oi 80' 



70 £;6 
58 42 
34 
32 



50 
4-' 

38 32 
24 32 



36 * 
32 32 

32] 32 

32 32 



32 



80 80 

*l * 

32' 46 

.32 34 

+ i 32 

32 

32 



,32 32 32, 32 



32! 32' 



tit 



'Leaky, t Frozen, 



68 



HISTORY 01- Tin-: MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 10. 



S:00 a. 

g:00 " 
io:oo " 
1 1 :oo " 
12:00 m. 

1 :oo p. 1 

2 :oo " 
3 :00 " 
4:00 " 





Temperature of Water in Canteens. 




Out- 


Conditions same as in Test No. 48. Snow fell during about two hours of 


side 
Ten.p. 


the time occupied in making the test. 


A 


15 


C|D 


E 


F 1 G 


H 


I 


K 


L 


M 1 N 





p 


Q 































1 


— 


— 


— 


+ 8 


I SO 


n,o 


1301130 


no 


130 130 


130 


130 


I. 10 


130 


130 130 


130 


130 


130 


8 


86 


Q% 


* S6 




* 


100 


q6 


104 


98 


80 


48 


" 


" 


* 


102 


10 


62 


72 


50! 32 


60 


104 


84 


82 


86 


80 


.S6 


32 


32 


32 


50 


84 


12 


46 


S8 


32; 32 


34 


84 


68 


68 


72 


66 


40 


32 


32 


32 


32 


72 


'4 


^,6 


48 


32, 32 
32 t 


32 


68 


60 


5« 


62 


56 


34 


32 


r 


r 


32 


t,4 


16 


^2 


40 


32 


Sb 


SO 


S4 


S4 


50 


32 


32 


32 


^? 


16 


32 


36 


32 


32 


.SO 


46 


46 


46 


42 


32 


32 






32 


48 


18 


32 


32 


32 


32 


42 


40 


40 


42 


38 


32 








T 


44 


iS 


32 


32 


321 


32 


3«' 3f' 


36 


_3H 


26 


32I 1 ' 


i40 



Leaky. 1 Frozen. 



TEST No. 50. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Every canteen and flask filled to its capacity. 



8:00 a. m. ... 

9 ;oo " . . . - 
10:00 " .... 
11:00 " .... 
12:00 m 

1 :oo p. in 

2:00 " .. ... 

3:00 " 

4:00 " 

» Leaky tFi 
was 30 o!s. 



Temp. 


A 


1; 


c 


D 


E 


V 


G 


H 


I 


K 


L 


M 


N 


^ i 



























— 
















+ 4 


SO 


SO 


so 


so 


SO 


so 


SO 


•^° 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


6 


40 


42 


*S2 


+ 


*.2 


*42 


42 


48 


42 


42 38 


32-32 


r 


8 


32 


34 


32 




32 


3b 


3H 


44 


40 


34 32 


32 


32 


1 12 


32 


32 


32 




f 


32 


32 


40 


34 


32! 32 


F 


32 




16 


32 


32 


32 




32 


32 


36 


32 


32 


32 


+ 


32 




i 18 


32 


32 


32 






32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 




32 




22 


32 


r 


r 






32 


32 


32 


32 


r 


32 




32 




22 


+ 


+ 




32 


32 


32 


32 


32 




32 




1 24 








§ 




32 


32 


32 


32 








32 





tliursted. §At starting had a capacity of 25 ozs. ; at the finish! 



50, 50 
34; 42 

32 3"^ 



34 



32, 
321 32 
32 32 
32 32 
32J 32 
321^32 

capacity 



TEST No. 51. 





Out. 

side 
Temp. 






1 


emperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


Every canteen and flask being filled to its capacity. 




A 


B 


^ 


U E ; F 


G 


H 


I 1 K 


L 


M 


N 





P 


y 




S T 





















... 
















- 






1 


a.m. 
8:00 


+ 16 


S6 


S6 


,6 


S6 S6 


56 

40 


56 


.S6 


56 


56 


56 


56 


56 


f 


56 


56 


56 


56; 59 


9:00 
10:00 


•1 


^6 


40 


32 


: ^2 


42 


SO 


44 


42 


3*^ 


32 


32 


+ 


32 


42 


42 


42, 40 


10 


32 


32 


32 


32 


34 


38 


48 


38 


3« 


32 


1^ 


32 




32 


36 


36 


36 34 


1 1:00 


10 


r 


32 


32 


t 


32 


32 


44 


32 


32 


32 


t 


32 




t 


34 


32 


34 32 


12 m. 


10 


32 


32 




*32 


32 


3^ 


32 


32 


t 




32 






32 


32 


32 32 


p. 111. 
1:00 


8 




l2 


r 




32 


32 


34 


32 


32 






t 




* 


32 


'f 


32, 32 


2:00 


^ 




+ 




32 


32 


32 


32 


32 












F 


t 


32, 32 


3:00 
4:00 










* 


32 
32 


1 


32 

32 


_r 


+ 


_^ 








1 




t 1 t 



"Leaky. 



HISTORY OF Tilt: MILITARY CANTEEiV. 
TEST No. 52. 



69 





o,„. 

side 
Temp. 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


Every canteen and flask filled to its eapacity. 




" 


B 


c 


D 1 E 1 F 


G 


H 


I 


K 


L 


M 


N 


" 


P 


Q 


R[ .S 


T 


a.m. 
8:00 


+ 2 


'J^ 


178 


178 


1 1 
t 178 178 


178 


178 


178 


178 


178 


+ 

+ 


+ 


+ 

+ 


178 


178 


1 
178:178 


178 


9:00 


2 


*4b 


loS 


*4b 


60*98 


138 


138 


124 


I. SO 


106 








*40 


134 


134 136 


n2 


10:00 


4 


S2 


74 


32 


32, 80 


no 


1 10 


04 


1 02 


76 








32 


108 


108 no 


102 


11:00 


8 


11 


56 


32 


■ ! F 


62 


90 


98 


78 


80 


54 








+ 


90 


88 90 


86 


12 111. 


10 


42 


32 


1 1 


48 


76 


86 


62 


66 


40 










76 


74 76 


70 


1:00 


12 


,32 


36 


t 




38 


66 


74 


52 


54 


34 










64 


62I 64 


60 


2:00 


12 


32 


32 






32 


S6 


66 


44 


44 


32 










56 


54 56 


50 


3:00 


14 


32 


32 






32 


46 


58 


38 


38 


32 










48 


46 48 


44 


4:00 


14 


32 


32 


+ 




32 


3^ 


54 


34 


34 


32 










42 


40I 42 


40 



"^Lcaky. fFrozen. t'^urs's'l. 



TEST No. 53. 







Temperature of Water in Canteens. 








Hour. 


side 
Temp. 


Conditions same as in Test No. 52. 




A 


B 


c 


D 


E 


•^ 


G 


H 


I 1 K 


^ 


M 


■^^ 


C) 


'■ 


Q 


R|S 


T 


am. 
8:00 


+ 18 


168 


168 


1 68 


168 


168 


168 


168 


168 


i68'i68 


.63 


168 


168 


I6S 


168 


1 68 


168 168 


168 


9:00 


20 


108 


126 


+ 




86 


U2 


138 


140 


1.S8I138 


124 


+ 


+ 
+ 


+ 
+ 


+ 


140 


1401.38 


140 


10:00 


22 


78 


106 






56 


90' 1 20 


126 


118118 


100 










122 


i24'ii8 


lib 


11:00 


24 


58 


86 






38 


72 102 


112 


102: 98 


80 










106 


104102 


98 


12111. 


24 


48 


70 






34 


60 


90 


100 


8Sl 86 


68 










94 


92 


90 


86 


p. m. 
1:00 


28 


42 


62 






32 


52 


78 


92 


78J 76 


58 










84 


80 


78 


74 


2:00 


26 


36 


52 






32 


44 


68 


84 


68 


64 


50 










74 


72 


70 


66 


VOO 


24 


34 


46 






32 


40 


62 


76 


66 


58 


44 










66 


64 


62 


60 


4:00 


24 


32 


44 






32 


38 


5(5 


72 


56' 52 


42 








62 


60 58 


54 



TEST No. 54. 





Out- 
side 


Temperature of W.iter in Canteens. 


1 lour 


Same canteens, conditions, etc., as in Test No. 53, except that 


1 snow storm 




lemp. 


prevailed most of the time covered by the test. 






- 


B 


c 


\) 


E 


K 


G 


H 


I 


K 


L 


M 


N 


" 


^' 


(2 j R j S 


T 


a.m. 


































1 




8:00 


+22 


170 


170 






170 


170 


170 


170 


170 


170,170 










170 170 170 


170 


9:00 


24 


116 


132 






106 


146 


140 


150 


138 


I3b|i28 










146 144 146 


142 


10:00 


26 


82 


104 






70 


114 


120 


132 


116 


114 104 










124 126 122 


118 


u:oo 


26 


66 


88 






52 


94 


102 


120 


102 


98 88 










no 


uo 106 

1 


104 


12:00 


28 


52 


74 






42 


78 


90 


uo 


88 


86 72 










98 


96 


94 


90 


i:oo 


30 


46 


66 






38 


68 


80 


102 


80 


78 


64 










88 


86 


84 


80 


2:00 


30 


40 


58 






36 


58 


72 


92 


70 


68 


56 










80 


78 


74 


70 


3:00 


30 


38 


52 






32 


50 


64 


84 


64 


62 


50 










72 


70 


66 


64 


4:00 


28 


36 


48 






32 


44 


60 


80 


58 


56 


46 










66 


64 


60 


58 



70 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 




T^t/^fold ^ 6oi6ioi A/umrhu/n Ca*fiee>r. 
Sf^f/e ^e/t coc/er. Capacity Sf of. f/uid 
measure, JferyAi d ok Avetrdvpcis 





>ca/e : ^ 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 55. 



71 





Out- 
side 
Temp. 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


Each canteen filled. 




A 


B| C 


u 


E 


F 


G 


H 


I 


K 


L 


M 


N 


U 


P 


Q 


R 


s 


■r 


a.m. 








































8.00 


tl2 


i^ 


52: 52 




i^ 


52 


52 




52 


S2 


52 










S2 


52 


S2 


S2 


9.00 


8 


t 


•'^ 




+ 


'42 


42 




42 


42 


38 










42 


42 


42 


42 


10.00 


8 




32' 






3b 


36 




36 


34 


32 










36 


36 


36 


34 


11.00 


8 




32 








32 


32 




32 


32 


32 










32 


32 


32 


32 


12.00 


10 




32 








32 


32 




32 


32 


t 










32 


32 


32 


32 


p. m. 










































1.00 


14 




32 








32 


32 




32 


32 










32 


32 


32 


32 


2.00 


16 




32 








32 


32 




32 


t 










32 


32 


32 


32 


3.00 


18 


+ 


F 






32 


32 




32 












32 


32 


r 


32 


4.00 


22 




1 1 






32 t 


t ! i 








t 


32 


32 



"Leaky, ft'rozen. tBursted. 









Temperature of Water in Canteens. 




Out. 
side 






Hour. 


Each canteen filled. 






A 


B 


c 


D 


E|K 


G 


H 


• 


K 


I. 


M 


N 





1' 


Q|K 


s 


T 


a.m. 








































750 


*24 


.SO 


50 






50i 50 


.SO 




SO 


SO 


SO 










so 


so 


SO 


SO 


8.50 


26 


40 


42 






36,*46 


4b 




4b 


4b 


42 










46 


46 


46 


44 


9-50 


26 


34 


40 






32 


42 


44 




42 


42 


38 










42 


44 


42 


42 


10.50 


30 


34 


3b 






32 


40 


42 




40 


40 


3b 










40 


42 


42 


40 


11.50 
p. m. 
12.50 


32 


34 


34 






32 


38 


40 




3^ 


40 


34 










40 


40 40 


38 


34 


34 


34 






32 


38 


40 




38 


40 


34 










38 


40 


40 


38 


1.50 


3t' 


34 


34 






34 


3« 


40 




3b 


38 


34 










38 


40 


40 


38 


2.50 


38 


3b 


34 






3b 


3b 


38 




3b 


38 


3b 










38 


38 


38 


38 


3- 50 


3-^ 


3b 


3J 






3(^ 


^ 


3« 


38 


38 


36 










38 


38 


38 


38 



*Leaky. 





Out- 
side 
Temp. 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


It rained during part of the time. A!l canteens filled. 




A 


B|C 


D 


E 


F 


G 


H 


I 1 K 


L 


M 


N 





P 


Q 


R 


^ 


T 


a.m. 










































7-4S 


+32 


52 


52 






52 


S2 


52 




52 




S2 










S2 


S2 


S2 


S2 


8-45 


34 


4b 


44 






40 


*4b 


50 




52 




4b 










46 


48 


46 


46 


9 45 


34 


40 


42 






3b 


42 


4b 




50 




42 










4+ 


46 


44 


44 


10.45 


^6 


40 


40 






3b 


42 


44 




4b 




40 










44 


44 


44 


42 


11-45 
p.m. 
12.45 


38 


40 


38 






38 


42 


44 




4b 




40 










42 


44 


42 


42 


42 


40 


40 






40 


42 


44 




46 




40 










42 


44 


4. 


42 


1-45 


42 


42 


40 




40 


42 


44 




44 




42: 








42 


44 


42 


42 


2.45 


40 


40 


40 




40 


42 


42 




44 




421 








42 


44 


42 


42 


3-45 


40 


40 


_J^ 


1 40 


42I 42 




42 




40' 








42 


42 


42 


42 



•■ Leaky. 



72 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

TEST No. 58. 





Out- 
side 
Tern. 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour 


Every canteen was filled to its capacity. 




A 


}! 


C 


D 


K 


F 


G 


H 


I 


K 


L 


M 


M 





P 


y 


K 


b 


T 


u 















































— 


— 


— 











— 


a.m. 












































lAh 


•^12 


S4 


S4 






S4 


*=;4 


S4 




S4 




.S4 










54 


54 


54 


54 


54 


i\:> 


12 


S4 


S8 






3^ 


42 


44 




46 




3b 




1 




42 


42 


42 


42 


42 


•Mi. 


•14 


1,2 


T,2 






t 


3S 


3B 




40 




32 










3f 


3^ 


3^ 


3<3 


3^ 


lO.ii 


'4 


1,2 


T,2 








V 


32 




34 




32 










32 


32 


321 32i .54 


ll.4.i 


l6 


32 


32 








32 


32; 


32 


i ^' 










32 


32 


32: 32| 32 


p. m. 




































12.45 


i6 


S2 


T,2 








32 


32 


32 


t 










32 32 


32I 32| 3^ 


1.4S 


i6 


^^ 


t 








32 


3? 


32 












32 


32 


32, 32 32 


2.45 


i8 


+ 










32 


32 


J! 












32 


32 


32, 32 32 


;u5 


i8 












32 


32 















•1- 32 


32' 32! 32 



*I,eaky. fFrozen. 



TEST No. 59. 





Sde' 
Tern. 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour 


All conditions identical with Test No. 58. 




A 


B 


C 


D 


E 


F 


G 


H 


I 1 K 


L 


M 


N 





p 


Q 


K 


.s 


T |U 












































— 


— 













a.m. 








































7.50 


-4 


52 


52 






52 


52 


52 




52, 


S2 










•^0 


52 


52 


52 52 

36|36 


S.50 


4 


r 


32 






r 


*i,6 


3B 




42 


32 










3« 


3b 


3b 


!t.5(l 


4 


t 






32 


32 




32 


1^ 










32 


32 


32 


32 32 


10..5() 


2 












32 


32 




32, 


t 










32 


32 


32 


32 32 


11.50 















32 


32 




32, 












32 


32 


32 


3^ 32 


p.m. 








































12.50 





















1 












t 


32 


32 


32 32 


1.50 


+2 












32 


32 




.32 














32 


32 


32, 32 


2.50 


2 












32 


32 




32 














32 


32 


32 32 


:^.50 


4 




+ 








32 


32 





32 








! 





32 


32I 32' 32 



'Lc^ky. tFi 



{Uursted. 



TEST No. (30. 





Out- 
side 
Temp. 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


All the canteens were filled. Snow fell during a portion of the time covered by test . 




A 


15 


C 


V 


E 
170 


F 1 G 

i7o'i7o 


H 


I 
170 


K 


L 
170 


M 


N 





P 


Q 
170 


R 
170 


S 
170 


T 
170 


u 


8.00a.m. 


+ 2 


170 


170 


9.00 " 


2 


108 








104 


138,136 




136 




128 










13^1142 


13^^ 


13b 


142 


10.00 " 


10 


70 








64 


108 112 




114 




94 










iiSiiiS 


114 


114 


lib 


11.00 " 


14 


52 








42 


86 


q6 




Q4 




74 










100 100 


q8 


94 


100 


12.00 m. 


18 


40 








32 


72 


82 




80 




60 










86 86 


84 


80 


86 


1. 00p.m. 


20 


34 








32 


60 


70 




70 




50 










74 74 


7b 


70 


74 


2.00 " 


22 


32 








32 


48 


60 




60 




42 










64| 64 


52 


bo 


64 


3.00 " 


22 


32 








32 


42 


54 




52 




36 










561 56 


5b 


52 


5b 


4.00 " 


20 


32 








32 


_J8 


^ 




46 




32 














50I 50 50! 46 


50 



Memorandum made of the fact that Canteen 
was measured prior to Test No. 37. Owing to 
wa.s 64 fluid ozs. wlien Te; 



No. 60 was made. 



•L" held 60 tluid oz.s. when capacity 
la t ion due to freezing, its capacity 



IIISTUKV UF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 61. 



73 







Temperature of Water in Canteens. 




Out- 
side 
Temp. 




Hour. 


All the canteens were filled. 




A 


B C 


D 


E 
172 


V 
172 


G 



172 


H 


172 


H 


L 

172 


M 


N 
_ 





P 


Q 
172 


R S 
172 172 


r 

172 


II 


7.50a.m. 





172 






172 


8.50 " 


+ 2 


qo 








6b 


1.36 


i.^o 




1.32 




112 










«.38 


13^1.34 


134 


i.^*^ 


9.50 " 


4 


S2 








32 


102 


108 




104 




78 












106 loS 


I Ob 


no 


10.50 " 


8 


S4 








1,2 


80 


86 




84 




.SO 










92 


86 


8b 


86 


88 


11.50 " 


12 


^2 








32 


bo 


70 




66 




40 










7b 


70 


72 


b8 


70 


12.50P. in. 


14 


7,2 








32 


4S 


60 




Sb 




34 










64 


58 


b2 


.S8 


bo 


1.50 " 


iS 


32 








+ 


38 


.SO 




48 




32 










54 


50 


':2 


50 


SO 


2.50 " 


20 


S2 










32 


44 




40 




32 










4b 


42 


44 


42 


44 


3-50 " 


20 


32 










32 


38 




36 




32 










_42 


38 40 


38 


38 



TEST No. 62. 





Out- 
side 

re„p. 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


All the canteens were filled. 




A 


B 


C 


D 


168 


F 
168 


G 


H 


168 


K 


L M 

76S~ 


N 





1" 


Q 
168 


R S 
168 168 


1]!^ 


8.00 a. 111. 


+20 


168 




168 168 


9.00 " 


20 


108 








90 1^6 


138 




i>6 




124I 








140 


138140 


140 138 


10.00 " 


20 


74 








S4 


108 


u6 




112 




94| 








118 


ii8 118 


114 118 


11.00 " 


20 


S2 








36 


82 


q6 




Q4 




72 








I Ob 


98 


98 


96 


98 


12.00 111. 


20 


40 








32 


64 


80 




80 




^^ 








86 


M 


82 


80 


84 




20 


32 








32 


SO 


68 




68 




48' 








7b 


72 


70 


70 


74 


2.00 " 


22 


32 








32 


42 


60 




S8 




40 








bb 


b2 


b2 


60 


64 


3.0D " 


22 


32 








32 


32 


4b 




SO 




34 








5tJ 


54 


54 


^'t 


5b 


+.00 " 


20 


32 






1 32 


32 


46 




_^^ 




32 








50 


48 1 48 


48 


bo 



TEST No. 6;J. 



1 






Temperature of Water in Canteens. 








H iVd: 




All the canteens were filled. 




JT. 


A 


V, 


Ct E 


G 


H 


I 


T 


Q 


R 


s 


T 


u 


V 


w 


X 






— 





























a. m. 
8:00 +14 


184 






184 


184 




184 


184 


184 


184 


184 


184 


184 








9:00 


lb 


100 






90 


144 




144 


1.30 


150 


144 


144 


140 


148 










-.6 


70 






S4 


122 




122 


100 


126 


122 


122 


120 


124 








1 1 :oo 


^S 


54 






40 


102 




102 


80 


10b 


106 


104 


100 


106 








12 m. 


30 


44 






34 


88 




8b 


bb 


94 


88 


88 


8b 


92 








1:00 


32 


40 






32 


78 




76 


S6 


82 


80 


80 


76 


82 








2:00 
1:co 


f" 


t 






S 


68 
S8 




b8 
56 


46 


72 
66 


T 

64 


bo 

64 


68 
62 


V2 

66 








4:00 


36156 




36 


58 




56 ; 44 i 62 


60 1 60 


5b 


60 




— 



74 



isroKV ()i- Till-: MlLl'l^\R^• cw'TiiiiN. 
TEST No. C>4. 







Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour, side 


Each canteen was filled. 


'■ 


A 


I! 


C 


E 


(1 


H 


I 


L| Q 


R 


S 1 T 


U 


V 


w 


X 


a. 111. 


































7-45 


+26 


48 






48 


48 




48 


48 


4S 


48 


48 


48 


48 








.S.45 


30 


40 






40 


44 




44 


44 


44 


4b 


44 


44 


4b 








9 45 


.14 


38 






36 


42 




42 


40 


42 


42 


42 


42 


44 








10. .5 


.1^ 


38 






38 


42 




42 


40 


42 


42 


42 


42 


42 








11.45 
]>. 111. 

12.45 


3-^ 


38 






38 


42 




40 


40 


42 


42 


42 


42 


42 








36 


36 






33 


40 




40 


38 


40 


40 


40 


40 


42 








I 45 


34 


3b 






3b 


40 




38 


38 


40 


40 


40 


40 


40 








2-45 


U 


34 






34 


3> 




38 


'36 


40 


38 


38 


38 


S8 








3 45 


32 


3^ 






34 


3b 




36 


34 


38 


3b 


38 


3b 


38 









TEST No. G5. 





Out- 
side 
Temp. 








Temperature 


of Watc 


inC 


"anteen. 










Hour. 




Each canteen was full. 




A 


B 


C 


E 1 G 


H 


I 1 L 1 Q 1 R 1 s 


T 


U 


V j w 


X 


• 


















. — 














S. 15 a. m 

0.15 " 


+38 


162 






162 162 


162 


i62'i62 162 162 162 


162 


162 


162 162 


162 


38 


102 






82;i36 


I.S8 


1321181138134134 


132 


132 


100 


76 


74 


10.15 " 


40 


7b 






56II4 


124 


114 


92;il8 


U2II4 




112 


74 


52 


50 


11.15 " 


40 


62 






46 100 


112 


100 


78 104 


98 100 


98 


98 


64 


44 


44 


1.2. 1 5 p. m 


42 


5b 






44 


QO 


102 


88 


68 


92 


86 


90 


8b 


88 


5b 


44 


42 




42 


50 






44 


80 


94 


76 


60 


82 


78 


80 


76 


78 


52 


44 


42 


^ [ - " 


42 


4S 






44 


70 


88 


70 


54 


76 


70 


72 


70 


72 


50 


42 


42 


3 '5 " 

4 '5 ' 


40 


44 






42 


66 


84 


64 


50 


68 


64 


66 


(.4 


64 


4b 


*40 


*40 


38 


42 







40 


60 


76 


60 


46 


62 


60 


60 


60 


60 


42 


40 


40 



^Leaky. — Leakage in "W and "X" occurred at points where lugs were riveted to the flask. 



TEST No. GG. 

Each canleen was full. A .severe bno\\.stoiin coiUimiuii.siy iirevailed during this 
test. All canteens were susjiended from a trestle and exposed to a high wind which 
kept them in motion. 



1 1. 00 a 
12.00 1 

2.00 I 

3.00 

4.00 



Outside 
'J'emperature. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



E G 



5050 
3650 

3b 1 40 

32|3b 
321. >4 



HI I I L IQiR S 



50 50I50 50 50 50 
50.5o;48,46 44 44 
441401364038,38 
42:36,343613434 
403213234134134 



5050 
46 46 

38138 
34134 

.•^4 '34 



5o!5o 
3634 



32 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



75 




Aft. /Ol/a, 

Cei/tr ajtai cariifrz Aock. nr/theui cover. 




Afo. //s/b 
Tourist Flask trii^ fiiZt 
Coucr and. surive-Z- . 




/Vo. /oiy 
Jrtitatt ArmtfSoii 
attat, hcutyiny strap. 




/V4>. //O. 
Flaalc for SoldLurs 



MmmJtum. FlaahS ^m Urt, Lanx y^'/jr. Co., Ciica,yo.M,<U fy JT/Z/re/m B^. ludvraQ^tiiJftrinttiff. ' 



inSTUKV (IF Till-: MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. CT. 



l'',;ich caiUc't-n was full. A snowstorm prevailed during first half of le.-l. 
the canteens were susi)ended from a trestle so that free circulation obtained. 



All of 



2.30 
330 
430 



Outside 
Temperature. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 





+16 
19 








20 




iS 








19 
19 







A E G H I 



5050 
38 t 
32 
T,2 



32 t 



L Q R I S T I U I V iW X B jA 



50 50,50 50 

36 ;4o;4o 40 

32J36136 38 
32363636 

32!32'32 35 
32323234 



323213232323232, 
323213232 ^,232 t 

32 32I32 t it I32I I 



5050 50 20 50 
40 40 36 t 

40 3^';i32: 

38361321 
3232J32 
3232,321 



TEST No. (58. 



Each tilled canteen was iilunged into a snow l)ank, 
through the period of the te^t — eight and one-half liours. 



;pt l)uried in the si 



S. 30 a. ni 

10.00 " 

11.00 " 

12.00 m 

1.00 p. m 

2.00 " 

3.00 " 

4.00 " 

vOO " 



Outside 
temperature. 



+25 



Tempo 



;r in Canteens. 



E G H I L Q I K 



3232 
32I32 
5232 
5232 



606060,6060 
424642I4244 

42I444242I42 
3842404240 
40140140^4040 



3S42 
38I38 
3838 
-^6-^6 



3S 4OJ4O 

3440^38 
3438138 

34'.S6'36 



|U|V 



W X,B A-I 



60 60 69 60 60 60 

4246484032142150 

42444638323450 

4044 44 36 32 32I46 

40,425236383246 
3842:4436343242 
3840403532(3238 
381381383432,3236 

;8l38l38 34 321^2134 



I'ltACTiCAL Service Conditions Simulated i;v Tests of Cvnteens. 

In making tests of canteens and canteen tlasks, effort has been 
made to simulate conditions of military service as nearly as possible. 
In every test it has ])een assnmed that a soldier is eqnipped with a 
canteen capable oi holding about three (3) joints of water; further, 
that he is in the open air f . a- a periocl oi eight (8) hours, at the 
expiration of which time his canteen has either been emptied, 
partly emptied, or retilled. In some- of the tests it has been assumed 
that the season of the year was summer ; in other tests that the 
season was winter. 

All canteens, or canteen tiasks or water bottles, have been sul;- 
jectcd to the .same, and uniform, tests. In my tests, the present 
regulation service canteen has been included ; this to aid in consider- 
ing the question of relati^•e merit. The canteens have not been of 
the same dimensions or capacity, but the tests have been so varie<l 
as to insure fairness. 



history of thi: military canteen. 77 

Methods of Testing Canteens, Canteen Flasks, Water Bot- 
tles, Etc., Intended for Use in the Military Serv- 
ice, Observed at Headquarters, Depart- 
ment OF Dakota, St. Paul, 
Minnesota. 

Every part of each canteen, flask, inner cover, outer cover, cork, 
etc., was examined as to material, quality, construction, weight, etc. 

Capacity of flasks in fluid ounces noted. 

Weight of felt, canvas, duck, or other material employed as cov- 
ering, separately taken, when saturated. 

The canteen was then immersed for period varying from thirty 
seconds to twelve (12) hours, and the total weight taken. 

The canteen flask was then filled with water, the temperature 
of which varied from 40 degrees F. to 178 degrees F., and exposed 
usually for a period of eight days, each canteen having an exposure 
each day of eight (8) consecutive hours to an open air temperature 
varying from minus lO degrees, F., to plus 125 degrees, F. 

In some cases the canteen flask was not filled when so exposed. 
In some cases hot coffee or hot tea was used instead of water. In 
some of the tests the exterior surface of the canteen was wet before 
the test. In some of the tests the exterior surface of the canteen 
was dry before and during the test. Experiments were made with 
both v/et and dry covers. 

Tests were equitable anrl impartial. No unfair interference with 
an\' canteen during a test — as by wetting or adjusting — was prac- 
ticed. When conditions or positions or environments were changed 
during the progress of a test, record of same was noted and made. 

In some of the tests the canteens were suspended from a trestle 
or tree, where free circulation and exposure to air, light and heat 
or cold, was maintained, without contact, for several hours. 

Some of the tests involved attaching the canteen to the saddle 
and subsequent transportation for several hours, the canteens being- 
attached in such a manner as to receive warmth from the body of 
the horse. 

In some cases the filled, or partly filled, canteen was thrown 
into an army wagon and so jolted around for a day — more or less — 
on a hunting or fishing trip, the tests being made during the trip or 
immediately at its conclusion. 

Mercurial thermometers were used in testing, uniform make, 
selected for uniform readings. None others employed. 

Beside each canteen, or between the canteens, wlicn suspended 



75 iIlSToI<^■ oi' iiii-: ^[ir.iT.\RV caxterx. 

and \\lieiie\cr possihle at all. a iIktiik imeKT was Iniiii;- I'l'diii wliicli 
hourly readings were taken by insertions in the lluid within the 
canteen. Outside temperature taken hourly on the spot. Ther- 
mometers were frequently coiripared and verified. See cut of Trestle 
used. 

During some of the tests a few ounces (f water were taken from 
the canteens ever\- h.our or so. When this was done the water was 
not replaced. 

The tests cover a i)eriod embracing s])ring, sinnmer. fall, winter, 
and were made in manv It^alities. 

During some of the tests the canteen was kept in constant 
motion by the wind, or by jolting on a moving bicycle, or bv pre- 
vailing rain or snow storms. In the majority of the tests, tropical 
condition or frigid conditions did not have to he simulated ; thev 
]j re vailed. 

In some cases the canteen was tested by laying on the grass or 
the ground, on the sand, on a window sill of granite, under canvas, 
on a government blanket, tent floor, house top or roof; the position 
being either flat, tipped up, etc. Sometimes the canteents were laid 
on the snow, or in contact with ice. 

In exceptional cases, the canteen was placed in a hot air sterilizer, 
used as an incubator; or in a cold storage room, or beer vault of 
uniform temperature, thermometer always with it, but 1 have con- 
cluded that these, being artificial tests, are unsafe guides. 

An exceptional manner of testmg it was to place the canteen 
so as to receive the direct action of a fire fiom a fire-i)lace or stnve ; 
or in an oven, or the direct or indirect action of a steam or hot air 
radiator. Some were hung over boilers in such manner as t<,) secure 
high and uniform temperature. Some were exposed under glass 
covers exposed to the sim and so jilaced as to allow free access of 
air. 

All i)f these tests reported from these head(|uarters were made 
by one person. X'o other person handled the canteens or thermome- 
ters. In these latter tests the canteens under trial, and thermometers, 
remained in the hands of that person. 

In cases where a canteen became from any cause too leaky for 
further use, rs burst, or collapsed, it was replaced when practicable 
l)y another of the same kind and the latter treated as a new canteen. 

Wnien a canteen j^assed through the regular tests, i. e., eight 
days of eight consecutive hours each, it was subjected to su])ple- 
mentarv tests to determine its endurance, etc. 



IIISTOKV OF rril': MILlT.\m* CANTEEN. 79 

111 niililary service an}' aiul c\ci"\- canteen is certain to l)e suli- 
jected to hard tisage ; to l)c knocked about, to be bent or Ijattered ; 
hence a fair degree of tensile strength, durability and rigidity is a 
requisite to be taken into consideration. 

AlumIxXU-m as a Materiat, for Canteen Fla.sks. 

The working of aluminum by forging, rolling, stamping, spin- 
ning, casting, joining and finishing may yet include the production 
of an American-made canteen in a single piece suited to military 
service. 

Of all the European countries, Italy is probably as far advanced 
as any in the utilization of aluminum for practical and scientific 
purposes. In the army, aluminum is there used to make the fuses for 
the shells of their guns. In the navy for searchlight purposes, furni- 
ture on board torpedo destroyers, also in the metallic part of telephone 
apparatus. 

Aluminum is used in the liritish army for officers' outfits; for 
water bottles ; cavalry mess kits ; "Cdiitral" canteens ; infantry can- 
teens ; regimental mess utensils and tal)le ware. 

The British army infantry aluminum canteen consists of an 
outside pot about 7^ inches in diameter by 7 inches deep, with lid 
and loose handle for packing, military camp kettle with folding 
handles and detachable spout, one set of three cups, each with fold- 
ing handle, nested, and tea ball, all fitting inside kettle. In addition 
to the above are included 3 plates, knives, forks, dessert and tea 
spoons, and three condiment boxes. The whole of these are packed 
in the outside pot. 7.V inches by 7 inches, and the total weight is about 
four pounds. 

One maker has designed a canteen for either two. three, or four 
persons, and named it "Chitral." This has proved a great success, 
as it is a frequent custom for two. three or four officers to mess 
together, and by combining they can reduce their kit very consider- 
ably. The ''Chitral" canteen consists of a deep outer pot, io| inches 
in diameter by 10 inches deep, and made of stout metal to stand 
knocking about. The lid of this is a similar pot which drops over the 
top, but shallower, and thus forms a telescopic parcel, as it were, in 
case of extra articles to be crowded into the canteen. 

Inside this pot are fitted a camp kettle, sugar, tea, coffee, and 
flour boxes, tea ball, three condiment boxes, cups and saucers, dinner 
and soup plates, drinking cups and flask, and wine mugs, these 
latter all nesting, liquor cups, frying pan witli folding handle, 
knives, forks, dessert and tea spoons, and loose handle for pot and 



8o 



MK MrUTARV C ANTE EX. 




CC 

£!»ameieci Meial Caf?t<z.<c,/f /^/as^ lou^/ri iyi67re 6/.5.,(^/7./So0 

from tJte ^Zufue 7cti/a. £rrantelr/tf Co., CayoacUy -^9% //util ou^rce^. 
tyeifJrt, /ii/Zeei, cot/erj on arret, dry, at^oir^f/oois 6-^^. /retfA^,A//«d,. 
Cffotrs Wf, a^6er te» r>fir?$«6es im/nersio/t, OMoirc^uaori ?S cu^c«s>. 



IIISTORV OF '11I1-: MIl.riARV CAXTEEX. 51 

lid. The whole is held together with a stniii strn]> and tonus a 
most cunvenient ])arcel tnr transjioil. 

A variety of (Jther similar eaiiteen> and mess tins in aluminum 
are being made accordin-g to the various requirements of different 
regimental officers, but the above has been turned out at the rate of 
some hundreds per week during the last four months, and the 
demand is as great as ever. 

Some of the larger regimental messes of the various army corps 
as they left England went so far as to adopt aluminum entirely in 
place of copper, iron, tin, porcelain, earthenware, glass, etc. I 
mean by this that not only were the kitchens equipped with aluminum 
utensils, but the officers used aluminum exclusively at the mess 
table. Wine glasses, decanters, milk jugs, teapots, candlesticks, 
trays, in fact nothing but aluminum was taken so long as makers 
could be found who had a stock of such articles in aluminum or 
could make them in the short time required. 

I have had frequent conversations with officers on their return 
from various campaigns, both from India, Egypt, and West Africa, 
during the last few years, who have taken out and used aluminum 
kits, and they have assured me that they have no fault to find with 
the metal and failed to conceive why the metal was not adopted at 
once throughout the service. 

There is every prospect for a further demand and use of alu- 
minum, for military purposes. 

The British-Boer War in South Africa has stimulated a deman<l 
for aluminum field cooking and messing outfits, thus spreading the 
fame of aluminum and knowledge of its advantages for portable 
gear among a class of men who will understand and appreciate 
them. 

The German Army, as well as the field forces of other con- 
tinental powers, are equipped with aluminum, and the dead weight 
per man of superfluous ornamentation and equipment has been con- 
siderably reduced, tending to increased efficiency as a fighting unit. 
At a meeting of the Mining and Metallurgical Section of the 
Eranklin Institute, Philadelphia, Joseph A. Steinmetz stated that 
the plants now producing aluminum are those of the Pittsburg 
Reduction Company, at New Kensington, Pa., and Niagara Falls, 
N. Y. ; the British Aluminum Company, of England ; the Aluminum 
Industrie Actien Gesellschaft, at Neuhausen, at the Falls of the 
Rhine, in Switzerland ; the Societe Electrometallurgique Francaise, 
at La Praz ; the Societe Industrielle de I'Aluminum, at St. Michel, 
m France. There are also several large plants projected and in 



82 inSTORV OF Till-: Mtl-ITAin' CAXTEEX. 

course of constriiclion, uolabl}- ii[)nn the St. Lawrence River, in 
Canada, and at Rheinfelden and Salzburg, in Germany. 

The aluminum canteen flasks met the test of exposure iu the open 
air to a temperature varying from lo degrees F. to 2 degrees F. 
better than the tin flasks. In durability they would better fulfill 
the requirements of actual use, so exposed. 

Their cost will be contingent on the market price of aluminum, 
which metal has been constantly cheapening since its first introduc- 
tion for manufacturing purposes. 

The variety of shape, construction, sizes, style, etc., of aluminum 
canteen flasks and water bottles is increasing, and Aiuerican manu- 
facturers have shown a determination to compete with the oldest 
European aluminum industries, as well as with one another. 

It is claimed that it takes only one-third of a pound of aluminum 
to take the place of a pound of brass, tin, or copper. Assuming 
this, the price of one-third of a pound of aluminum compared with 
that of one potmd of brass, copper, or tin, stands as follows : One- 
third pound of aluminum 1 1 cents ; one pound of l)rass, 1 5 cents ; one 
pound of copper, 75 cents ; one pound of tin, 30 cents. 

Probably some of the aluminum canteen flasks, or canteens, 
tested by me have been alloyed with, perhaps, five per cent of cop- 
per, nickel, or manganese, or a larger percentage of zinc added to 
give strength and rigidity. Canteens F, M, N, and O, appear to be 
a hard white alloy and are polished. Flasks D- and K, also canteen 
L, are soft, malleable, silky, tough, and satin finished, elastic, un- 
polished. Their elastic qualities are especially apparent in a freez- 
mg environment when they commence to bulge, but not rupture or 
break, as the water within the flask begins to congeal. When the 
water is converted into ice, an expansion ensues, the ductile alum- 
inum yields to the pressure, the concave side becomes protuberant 
and permanently swelled, bellying outwardly. The distension of 
flask D from this cause increased its capacity twenty per cent (20), 
before its eighth trial. The metal dilated, — permanently, — but did 
not leak, at the ninth trial. It is not resilient. See cuts D and L. 

Canteen P, is unpolished. Flasks N and O do not stand up as 
well as the German made flasks. The fifth day of the trial showed a 
slight leak in each N and O, — although the firm says in a communi- 
cation to me : "We beg to advise you that of the various shapes of 
aluminum canteens that we have made, there is not a single one that 
we have soldered =•= -•' -■' We have devised ways a«nd means of 
making them water tight without solder." 

At first, when flasks or canteens were tested in the open air, 



IIISTURV UF THE MILITARV CAXTKEN. 83 

wlicii llie tcini)oraiiirni hccanic such thai ihev were in (lani;cr of" 
frceziiii;-. I \vith<'i-e\\ ihciii ; hiil, latterly. 1 liave allowed them lu 
freeze. Tliis was td test them to the limit of their endurance and 
specially to discover, if possible, whether any of the so-called water- 
tight, one-piece, or seamless, flasks had been soldered in such wise 
as to show no lines of juncture, etc.. visible outwardly. Also be- 
cause the manufacturers alleged that they were v/ater-tight. The 
number of people who want to take the United States into partner- 
ship with them in altruistic ventures is very great. Manufacturers 
are willing to get up so-and-so many thousand devices, — provided 
the United States will give a guarantee in advance. One benefactor 
of soldiers writes, in substance, that, knowing the dependence of man 
upon his canteen in an arid region, he is ready to utilize envelopes 
of frozen liquir air for the canteen flask, if the War Department 
will advance him the cost of the plant involved and necessary for 
the invention, which is not patented. Another suggests indurated 
fiber and wood pulp as the material for flasks. Another writes "I 
could make a canteen in two pieces that would answer all require- 
ments. I have no money to burn, and so do not propose to experi- 
ment on same. If there was a contract in prospect, — no doubt but 
I shoukl struggle for the contract." 

Mr. Joseph Koenig. .Manager of the Two Rivers, \Vis., Alum- 
inum Manufacturing Co.. writes as follows: "We are asked by 
Messrs. Lanz, Owen & Co.. Chicago, Ills., to make a canteen which 
is to hold about forty-eight ounces of fluid, and to be of seamless 
metal. 

"We certainly think that aluminum is the proper metal, as we un- 
derstand the Cierman army is equipped with these. The same has 
not been manufactured, so far. in the United States; but we could 
do this work, if there was any possible chance of getting the govern- 
ment contract for the same. 

"To make one of these canteens means to go to an expense of 
$500 for tools and experiments, and unless there is a possibility of 
getting a contract, it would not ])ay to undertake this expense. This 
is probably the only reason why no one has manufactured this can- 
teen, as yet. in the United States. 

"This canteen, if it lie made of one piece, could not be round as 
the present canteen is. but would have to be oblong, being higher 
than wide at its widest direction ; depressed on its bodv side, rounded 
on the other side. 

\Ve have no doubt at all in our mind, but that this is the can for 
I he purpose, if spun of pure aluminum, not of any alloy of any kind. 



84 inSTOKV Ol- THE MILITARY fAXTKEN. 

imk'ss tlu' new nia,:;tic^i,-ni ;illi>y slioiild l)r provon more su|)i'ri(-.r ihaii 
llic i)urc aluinimuii. 

Wc understand that the ( iovcrnnicut canndi undciTake In L;ive 
a contract before the article is made and tested. 1)nt is it not possible 
that the Government can advance a small amount, say $200, to pro- 
duce some samples for a test ? 

We would then be willing- to stand the rest of the expense, know- 
ing that we would have some prospects of obtalnino- the contract. 
We do not care to spend time for experimental purposes and finally 
only have competitors to meet on exceptionally low rates, and have 
the same tendency to use thinner metal and price cutting evolved 
that always takes place on new articles. If this is the case, we 
would not care to give you any figure on the same and would not 
bother with them. If you will advance money on the experimental 
work, will go ahead after the article has developed. So far as we 
see, these canteens have not been made in the United States. If we 
did not know what difficulties were invohed we would not ask you 
to show us consideration if we undertake these experiments and 
make up tl:c tods for tlie article. \\'e certainly can make the can- 
teens; it is onl}' a matter of cost for the tools. Cast aluminum will 
not stand the wear. It will corrode. The flasks will have to be spun, 
not of al)solutclv pure alumimmi." 

The economy attending the use of aluminum as a substitute for 
tin in flasks of canteens intended for use in the military service of the 
United States cannot be now dwelt upon for various reasons, one of 
which reasons is that no canteen flask made of aluminum or its 
alloys, made in the United States, has yet been presented to me that 
compared favorably wdth the German made canteens loaned me for 
trial by the Lanz Canteen Co., of Chicago, 111. 

The aluminum canteen flasks furnished me by the firm last named 
were probably spun ; they were single piece ; they did not leak ; the 
Lanz Canteen Co. did not quote their cost or selliiig jiricc. 

All of the aluminum canteens from the New Jersey Co., four in 
number, leaked. 

The same defect, viz.; leakage, existed in the trials made of the 
aluminum canteen submitted for test by the Broadway, X. Y. City, 
firm. 

So far as my tests are concerned, no flask made from more than 
one piece of aluminum or aluminoid has withstood, without disjunc- 
ti(nis and leakage, the variations of temperature ranging from minus 
10" V. to plus 125° F. Blueprints accompanying this report show 
graphically that the flasks submitted for test by the Jersey Aluminum 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



85 




ArtxorfOL Caxie^n cov*r<id. irith saeli/tra 
ami an eyoK/raii* cartt/aa cot/e r, lartA mtth»i . 



E 



Orclnanct f^titrif, no cci/er Co^ctiy'^S OZ. 
HfeifUi /Jt ex. 




/4rre»* aiff) nAtrt /ttkeyt iefon 



Sca/e . /s 



86 HISTORY OF THE MH.ITAKV CANTEEN. 

Co., also tlie Reymond & Gottlob canteen, in common with the 
Dubuque Stamping & Enamel Co. canteen, also the tin flask C S. 
regulation service canteen, all leaked where the pieces had been 
joined. The small Karlsruhe, Baden, Germany, flask, is probably 
pure spun aluminum in one piece. Tt stood the test remarkably well, 
bursting only after its capacity increased from 25 to 30 ounces. In 
Test No. 59 — the capacity of Canteen L increased from 60 to 64 
ounces — it did not l)urst. 

Jainicy. Stcimiict.': cr Co.. Manufacturers of Aluminuvi. — Mr. 
Joseph A. Janney, jr., and Joseph A. Steinmetz.. Drexel Building. 
I'hiladelphia. Pa., were among the earliest advocates of aluminum as 
a metal for army canteens. The firm, at one time, had samples of the 
army canteens of P>ance, Russia, (jermany, England, and Mr. 
Steinmetz states, recommended certain canteen improvements to cer- 
tain military authorities. I le alleges willingness to have his foreign 
agents secure from military depots aljroad. canteens more sanitary 
than the present regulation flask canteen, of which Mr. Steinmetz 
writes as follows: "The jiresent I'. .^. Armv tin canteen, which is 
practically the same, with its rough edges and aljominablv inserted, 
separate, neck piece, which prevents the canteen e\er l)eing drained 
or cleaned, is, without doul)t, a worse (leath-l)ree(ler in our army thai 
all the combined opposing forces that we have e\er met in battle, is a 
matter of cheap economics. * ■■'■ ■■' Then, too, the expense of 
making up a lot of samples which would naturally be expected to 
be donated, is not to be considered from a business point of view, 
but the matter of the canteen lias interested me very much indeed. 
The canteen you ha\-e in nund will certainly cost more than the pres- 
ent //;/ death-trap." 

The Wagner Aluminum Manufacturing Co.. Sidney, Ohio, ad- 
vertises that its combined production of hollow-ware cast alumiimm, 
two factories, is the largest in the world. 

1 am in recei])t of two letters from this company and extract 
as follows: "We should be glad to experiment and see what could 
be done in the line of aluminum canteens. \W' do all kinds of cast 
aluminum work and believe it could ])e made much more durable, 
as the metal can be alloyed to give it strength. When we wrote \i)\\ 
before, we were under the impression that it would be possible to cast 
them in one ]Mece, lint, after studying the matter over, we have come 
to the conclusion that it wiudd be almost impossible to successfullv 
make them in one ])iece. •= ■' '■■ \\'e are sorry that we cannot see 
our way clear to experiment and see what can 1)e done with them. 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAXTKRX. 8/ 

We arc mailing you a copy of our catalogue and think possibly 
vou mav see something in our line of aluminum cooking utensils 
that could be used in the army, or possibly you could suggest some 
special patterns that could be made for army use. All of our goods 
are made of cast aluminum and give the hest of satisfaction even 
when used very roughly, and are a great deal more durable than any 
stamped or spun aluminum. We believe if cast aluminum was 
adopted for cooking utensils in the army, they would give a great 
deal better satisfaction than what is being used, for they, no doubt, 
would be much more durable and lighter to carry." 

The Pittsburg Reduction Co., Pittsburg and A'ct*.' Kcnsiiigstoii, 
Pa., and Niagara Falls. N. ]'., Manufacturers of Aluuiinuui. — This 
organization has purchased the aluminum plant of the Hill, Whit- 
ney & Wood Co., in Waltham, ]\Iass., and will move it to New Ken- 
sington, Westmoreland Co.. Pa., as the nucleus of an aluminum 
finishing department. Lieut. Col. Henry H. Whitney, Aide-de- 
Camp to General ^liles. and ^Nlajor ^^'m. C. Brown, ist U. S. 
Cavalry, are acquainted with the Secretar}- and General Manager — 
Arthur \'. Davis. Reports regarding aluminum articles for Army 
equipment have been made by the Officers named. 

The Company bought a number of German canteens sometime 
ago, two of which are now in m\- possession. They are made of a 
solid piece of aluminum, by, I am told, Carl Berg, whose works 
are at Eveking, Westphalia, Germany. See Cut \'. 



Air. A. W Davis says, regarding single piece, spun aluminum 
llasks : 

"The process of manufacture is the usual process of first spinning 
and afterwards pressing by means of inside pressure. 

The latter corresponds in general to an ordinary stamping 
]irocess except that the steel mould forming the shape is on the 
outside rather than on the inside. The half formed utensil is put 
into the die and pressure, usualK- 1\v means of water, is applied to 
the inside of the utensil until it swells out and conforms to the shaped 
outside and retaining mould. 

This companv expects to take up tlie manufacture of single 
piece canteens, provided there is a possibility of introducing such into 
the Armv. the object, of course, being profit to itself alo'-'e. 

Tn a recent comnnmication the General ^Manager also says: "Tn 
regard to cast aluminum, we think it has both commercial and me- 



88 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

chanical objections. Cast aluminum, like any other cast metal, is 
more or less porous, and wc take it that chances of leaks in defect- 
i\c utensils should he permittcfl. Furthermore, lo make a cast 
utensil requires at least a thickness of i-iO inch and usually ^IJ 
inch, and this runs the weight and consequent expense to a high 
figure. 

"In regard to the use of tin. we take it that the objections are 
not at all on the score of corrodibility. but on account of the me- 
chanical quality of softness. A canteen made of sheet-tin (I sup- 
pose, of course, you mean pure tin and not tin plate, the rusting 
objections to which are ol)vious ) wonld be too soft for practical 
purposes. It would be nearly as soft as if made of lead. Further- 
more the weight and price of tin as comj^arcd with aluminum would 
be about three times as great." 

A'ttl' Jersey Aluuiinnm Company. — Mr. C A. Kryttschnett, 
Manager of the New Jersey .Muminum Co.. Newark, N. J., writes: 
"We take special note of your remarks that the German canteens 
have surpassed anything of American manufacture ; allowing this 
to l)e so, we do not believe the .American could not do equally as 
well if we were all given another chance. We have probably all 
made the same mistake of trying to produce something cheap in- 
stead of something strictly of first class quality, and, speaking for 
ourselves, we did not know to what these canteens might be sub- 
jected, but we knew that they would hold water : in fact, it was 
hnng up here in our establishment for six months without any leak- 
ages ; but such tests as you have given them are more severe than 
anything we could have thought of. This is why we wrote vou 
as we did that your tests would be valuable to the manufacturers of 
canteens. We should very nnich like to have another trial at it, and, 
if possible, to have you send us one of the German canteens; per- 
haps we might even improve on the same. Furthermore, we believe 
it only to be fair and just t(» American manufacturers for Uncle 
Sam to patronize home industry. Wc {cc\ confident that canteens 
can be made in this count r\- that will meet ;dl requirements.'" 

Cast, T'.s". Slaiiiped, . lliimiiimn. — The Griswold Alanufacturing 
Co., Erie, Pa., for the production of the "Frie cast aluminum ware; 
New York warerooms, 294 Pearl .St., writes as follows: "We do 
not make anything in the way of an aluminum fiask. This would 
naturally be made of our stamped ware." 

The firm claims as a few points of merit of its hollow aluminum 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 89 

cast ware as follows: "Eaoii |)ieco is cast solid in one piece, leavin.t;- 
no seams or points to leak. IJeing cast, it is strong and stiff and 
cannot be annealed 1)\ lieat. while thin stamped aluminum ware 
warps and becomes soft after being heated. Aluminum as a metal 
leads for cooking utensils. The "Erie' ware does not tarnish and 
can be kept bright b\- cleaning same as silverware. It is solid, 
without plating ; no plating or enamel to wear off ; no poisonous 
metal ; they are absolutely pure and will last for ever ; cast all in 
one piece; no seams or rivets to leak; no enamel to flake off; rivets 
are cast on the outside of the piece, leaving no marks inside ; light 
and strong; either polished or satin finish; fruit acids do not affect 
it ; will not tarnish ; no solder used ; no rust ; practically incorro- 
dible ; no cracking or shelling off, all of the porcelain, agate and 
enameled ware of various kinds shell off, the cause being that the 
latter (like the Dubuque Stamping & Enamel Co. canteen) are a 
combination of mineral and metal, one expanding under conditions 
which make the other contract, and vice versa, resulting in a gen- 
eral disintegration of the whole." 

The firm claims that the superiority of the "Erie" cast alum- 
inum ware over the stamped aluminum ware is manifest b\- the 
following physical property of the metal : 

Aluminum hardens remarkabl}- when it is being w orked by press- 
ing, forging, rolling, stamping, or other similar treatments. The 
working imparts stiffness or temper, same as in high brass or copper. 
A vessel made from sheet aluminum, stiffened as above, when it 
is put over the fire and heated and then allowed to cool, is annealed ; 
after heating a few times it becomes soft like lead, whereas the 
metal in the cast ware is melted and chilled in the mould and cannot 
be annealed. Again, to make a casting, it is three or four times 
thicker than the stamped, therefore it is stronger, holds and con- 
ducts the heat better and is less liable to l)urn or scorch. Lastl}', 
much better shaped vessels can be made by casting than b}- stamp- 
ing. Cast ware, though higher priced at first than stamped, is 
cheaper in the end. An extraordinary feature of aluminum is its 
heat-retaining or non-radiating attributes. Aluminum discoloration 
can be prevented with one-half the care bestowed on other metals 
by using liquid solerine to clean with. 

Aluminum solder for Canteens.— A satisfactory solder for use 
on any metal should fulfill the following requirements: i. It should 
fuse readily. 2. It must alloy easily with the metal, in common 
parlance it must "bite." 3. It must be tough. 4. It must not disin- 



90 



HISTOK^■ or lUl". -MII.ITARV CANTEEN. 





use o/^ ^cu/tteaCC/F/ctrs USA 

3ca/e : /^ 



lilSTOKV OF TUli MILITARY CANTEEN. 9I 

tegrate. 5. It must liave the same color as the metal. (). It should 
uot discolor with age. 7. It should not he too expensive. 8. It 
must flow into a joint, y. For joining aluminum, it must stand 
\ery near aluminum in the electro-chemical series, i)articularly zinc, 
and carry its own flux. 

Since aluminum has hecome a common metal, numerous invent- 
ors and metallurgists have endeavored to produce a solder which 
would unite pieces of the metal in the same way that hrass, tin, and 
other metals can be joined by a tin-lead solder. Most of the solders 
l^roduced have required the use of a blowpipe, or special tools or 
fluxes, which are not handy for metal workers. All have disinteg- 
rated after the canteen flask has been filled for five or six days 
with water. Most of the solders contain lead, tin, bismuth or phos- 
phorous, and discolor with age. 

The "Aluminum World," published at 218 William St., X. Y., 
is authority for the statement that, although there are a number of 
solders in the market, and one new one which promises good re- 
sults, no solder has yet been produced that is valuable for canteen 
purposes, the defect being that they did not hold when the joint got 
wet, there being a galvanic action started between the aluminum 
and the solder. 

The Hill, Whitney & Wood Co., 115 liacon St.. Waltham, iVlass., 
manufacturing specialists in "Aluminoid," also pure Aluminum, 
either cast, stamped, or spun, write as follows: "We do not know 
of any real practical solder or method of soldering aluminum can- 
teens. There are two or three dilTerent solders, but none of these 
work satisfactorily, or are practical for work of that kind. Rich- 
ard's solder, sold liy Janney & Steinmetz. Drexel Building, Phila- 
delphia, and Green's solder, sold by Edward N. Cook, 144 Pine St., 
Providence, R. I., are the best we have used. A new solder has 
come out recently called the "AlcAdamite Solder" (W. A. Mc- 
Adams, 987 Kent St., IJorough of Brooklyn, N. Y.). We have never 
tried this, l)ut have a sample in our office which we will try at the 
first opportunity. 

"None of the solder we have ever had will run (ir flow into a 
joint readily, and therefore it makes a very difficult operation to 
solder anything, and we avoid it as much as possible. 

"We make a flask in two sizes, half a pint and pint, of one piece 
of metal, which, of course, is much better than could possibly be 
made of two pieces. We have experimented a little on the line of 
making a canteen from one piece, but have not as yet completed our 
experiment, ^^'e feel ({uite confident we can do it all right, although 



92 TTrSTORY Or.TTTr: MrLITAR^' CAXTEEX. 

we mi^lil 1)0 cnnipclled lo clianj^c tlic sliajie a link- fnim the rc^ula 
titni shape iidw used liy llie army. W'c shall CDiUiniK' mir cxpcri 
iiiciuiiii;, and. if successful, will advise you laler. 

"W'e shall not consider an experiment with anything- hut a seam- 
less canteen, as we do not think there is any solder that is reliahle 
for aluminum. 

"In regard to an aluminum canteen, we do not feel confident 
that it would he altogether satisfactory, for the reason that it dis- 
colors whisky after standing in it for' some time. 

"There is, however, un poisonous or injurious suhstance in the 
metal, but possibly there would not be so much whisky drank if it 
should be slightly discolored from the metal. I do not know that it 
afTects the taste in the least. W'e have sold quite a number of 
flasks, and have pe'oj^le report to us that it discolored whisky. 

"It would certainh- be ver\- much lighter than anything else 
used and would not rust or corrode like tin or enameled ware. 

"AV'e see no reason why this metal should m t be all right for 
canteens. AVe know that the German army are, or ha\e been, using 
aluminum flasks and canteens, but do not know with what suc- 
cess, nor whether they are made in one jiiece or soldered together. 
They can be made in that wa}-, but it is hardly practicable." 

Janney & Steinmetz, Drexel Building, Philadelphia, Pa., Alum- 
inum Merchants, state that Dr. Joseph Richards, of Lehigh I'niver- 
sity. Metallurgical and Chemical Department. School of Analytical 
Chemistry, invented a solder recommended b\- Mr. J. C. Ashton. 
General Manager of the Illinois Pure Alumimun Co., the largest 
manufacturers of aluminum cooking utensils in the world, b'ur- 
ther tbat the Richards' solder is pronounced satisfactory by the 
Aluminum Industrie Actien-Gesellschaft, the greatest aluminum 
manufacturing company in the world. Also tbat the T^ittsburg Re- 
duction Co. uses it. Also that Xaval Contractors and Pay Ins])ect- 
ors. C. S. Xavy. have ordered su])plies of it after careful ;;nd in- 
telligent experiment. 

"It is known," say Janney cK: .Steinmetz. "tliat either ]ture tin or 
pure zinc will join aluminum, and it is a \ery common fault to note 
that the bulk of the so-called solders are composed chiefly of those 
metals, but the use of these worthless solders has caused heavv 
losses to manufacturers of aluminum goods." 

The lack of an easy solder more than anything else retards the 
use of aluminum as a material for canteen flasks in the Ignited 
States. On the other band, the German Arms and .\mmunition 
Factories. Berlin, Karlsruhe, write: "We will shortlv manufac- 



lliSTURV OF Tllli MILITARY CAXTELX. 93 

Inrr an alnriiiniiiu llask No. 16, capacity 1.5 liter (50 oz. ) , with 
iini;s, and andllier one witli loops (or cars ) , as sainjilcs. Sec blue 
prints "W""" and "X," herewith. The date (on spccihcations ) fur- 
nished 1)\- you, regarding- the execution of the Hask will, as far as 
])racticable, Ije taken into consideration, and, upon completion of 
the samples, we will communicate to you our experiences gained 
during the manufacture of the same. Later on, we will submit to 
you counter propositions. The cork (or stopper) can be fastened 
to the neck with a light chain." 

The soldering of aluminum is not easy ; cannot be done by a 
single modifications of old methods, such as soldering tinned iron. 
.Aluminum is like copjjcr and black iron, not like tinned iron, and 
the edges to be joined must be cleaned and hot and tinned (or coated) 
and otherwise prepared for soldering; no flux of any description, 
cither on the metal or on the joint, being used. 

The property of ahmiinum which renders soldering so difficult 
is ^•cry probably its easy oxidation. Although apparently resisting 
oxidation very strongly, yet this resistance is not a simple process. 
When a clean surface of ahuninum is cxi)Osed to the atmosphere it 
is instantly covered with a lilm of oxide, which, being continuous 
and unalteral)le, protects the metal beneath it from further oxidation. 
This film or oxide acts effectually to prevent any other metal from 
coming in close enough contact with the aluminum beneath to alloy 
w ith it, and thus soldering is prevented. The use of a flux to dis- 
solve the oxide has been tried under all conditions, but none known 
to the writer have been found practicable. The Richards' solder 
was made upon the conclusion that that solder should contain its' 
own flux, so that the instant the film of oxide was removed the 
solder proper would be simultaneously present to take hold of the 
aluminum surface at the same instant it was cleaned from oxide. A 
percentage of phosphorous was added to the alloy. Letters patent 
on the use of an oxidizing agent, such as phosphorous in solder, 
were granted in July, 1892 — No. 478,238. 

TJic McAdaniitc Solder for .lUiiin'nium or its Alloys. — Mr. W. A. 
McAdams, 978 Kent Ave., r)orough of Hrooklyn, N. Y., advertises 
as follows: "L^pon large articles it is best to tin or cover the 
articles with the solder by a copper soldering iron. Then to melt 
them together by a hand brazing l)low-])i]ie. This consists of two 
]iipes, one for gas and the otlier for air, which combine into one 
mouthpiece for the blue flame. This to be blown by the mouth or 
foot bellows. This hand brazing blow-pipe is much used for brazing 



94 



.[-rARV CAXTEEN. 



hicvcles. Tliis l)l()\v-l)i|)c lU'cds lo Ix' iiiovrd by Ii.ukI al'ui^ or alM.iit 
llic joint or seam wliilc tlic wcrk reinains still. 

A X'ery neat way to do some kinds of Avork is to follow the iron 
in the act of tinning (to cover) with a cloth and wipe olif all the 
solder from the surface possible. When this is done on both the 
surfaces to be joined, la} in a piece of sheet solder and then melt 
the parts together by a nK;uth blow-pipe, or other means of heat- 
ing. This sheet solder will be sent at enough extra cost to cover 
the cost of rolling. 

"To solder a long seam edge to cdg<^. This is quite difficult to 
do because of the expansion and contraction of the sheet metal. First 
clean, and then tin the edges with the solder, lay the work, if pos- 
sible, upon asbestos board, and tack in i)laces along the seam by 
soldering and then fill in the spaces between. Use a soldering iron." 

"Do not use any fluxes. This solder contains its own flux. Let 
it l)e clearly understood that these solders do not flow into a joint 
or seam ; they must be jiut there. 

"All these solders are wonderfully strong and permanent. They 
are warranted to last as long as the aluminum itself. There is no 
decay or disintegration. They do not discolor by time. They 
are almost the same color as the aluminum, and take a good eye to see 
the solder in a finished ofi^ seam. There are no stains to remove. 

"These solders contain no lead, tin, bismuth, aluminum, or phos- 
phorotis. 

"They will solder aluminum to aluminum, or any of its alloys to 
each other, or all of thetii to brass or zinc, or brass to brass, or zinc 
to zinc, or all of them, whether they be cast or wrought, to each 
other indiscriminately, and do all of them strongly, permanently 
and well, provided that in the case of the aluminum alloys, the alum- 
inum is the largest part of the alloy. Brass to brass is more strongly 
soldered than by common tin and lead solder. 

"There are three grades of McAdamite solder: 

"No. I, melting at 430 degrees F., for very thin articles. 

"No. 2, melting at 550 degrees F., the best of the three for gen- 
eral use. 

"Xo. 3, melting at 6to degrees F., the strongest of them all. 

"Sent by mail at 25c per ounce, or $3.00 per lb., upon receipt of 
l-rice. Sent by freight or express at buyer's expense in ten pound 
lots at $2.25 per lb., or $22.50. No samples sent." 

The L. F. Altpctcr Solder.— L. F. Altpeter. 758 So. Halsted St., 
Chicago, 111., says in the "Aluminum World" regarding his hard 



IIISTORV OF Till-: .AtlLITARV CAXTEEX. 



95 




The La^TX Carry 36 ^ap fcrM'ai'ersac^s . 

^ArrciMS 3M0H1 nfitfe the yveak poit?is ofthepreszTi^iiern o^ reytt/aiion 
Struice Aoirer-jackj are . ZAe /"unctton v^thr carrc^ strajv 13 to siKPfllreK 
and su/jnort the ^fao«.rsazk.) . 



g6 HISTORY OF THE :\iH,r!ARv canteen. 

.jnd soft solders, that a soldering iron, l")lo\v-pipe, or lamp flame can 
be used. He claims a ]irocess to solder co]ipcr, l;)rass and other 
metals to akiminum. 

Greene's .Uiiiniiiuin So/dcr. — Is adxertised as heiny mainifac- 
tured and controlled solely by Edward X. Cook, 144 Pine St.. Provi- 
dence, R. 1., and is alleged to be recommended by the Pittsburg Re- 
duction Compan}'. 

Eugene M. Totteii's Compound fur Soldering Aluniiuuui. — A 
new compound for soldering aluminum has been patented by Eu- 
gene M. Totten, of Buffalo, N. V. In the specifications of Letters 
Patent, No. 667,999, the inventor claims that he has produced a 
solder capable of ready and immediate use without the necessity of 
filing or scraping the parts and without the employment of a separ- 
ate flux. The compound is composed of the following ingredients 
in the proportion specified : Aluminum, 20 ]x'r cent ; tin, 38 per cent ; 
zinc, 40 per cent, and a hydnx-arbon, 2 \wv cent. 

"In the manufacture of the solder, aluminum and tin are tirst 
melted, then the zinc is added, and after the reduction of the metals 
while still in a molten state, and without additional heating, there 
is added 2 per cent of the hydrocarbon, which is mixed with the 
other ingredients into a homogeneous mass. This latter ingredient 
may be fat, wax, parafine, or any other species of hydrocarbon. It 
has been demonstrated that the addition of a hydrocarbon to the 
alloy, by increasing the amount of carlion reduces and removes the 
oxides, which would otherwise form on the melted metal, and in con- 
sequence the compound, when cool, is white and free from oxides 
when solid. It is tlie carbon alone which effects the reduction of 
the metallic oxides formed on the surface of the aluminum parts to 
be soldered, and the scraping of such parts is rendered unneces- 
sary, because of the non-presence of oxides in the soldering com- 
pound made." 

The James Gibson Slater Aluminum Solder. — Mr. James Gibson 
.Slater, whose residence is 793 Manning Ave., Toronto, Canada, 
showed some samples of soldered aluminum. Mr. Slater had joined 
with a one-inch lap, sheet metal, sixteen inches in length. The 
pieces were soldered with a copper soldering iron. From the appear- 
ance of the articles the solder seems to flow into the joint, and it is 
nearly of the same color as aluminum. Mr. Slater guarantees that 
it will hold under varying conditions. He can solder different 



HISTORY OF THF. .MILITARY CAXTEEX. 97 

metals li> aluniimnn, and showed an aluniiiiuni faueet soldered to a 
lead pipe. Tie makes an alloy of aluminum, whieh he ealls "Lumi- 
noid." 

Tl\c Jiilicii Novel Ahiininiim Solder. — Julien Xovel, of 15 Rue 
(les Grottes, Geneva, Switzerland, has invented a tiux for soldering 
aluminum to aluminum, or to other metals, after the metals have 
heen tinned. The tinning and soldering fluxes are composed of 
stearic acid five i)arts. resin two parts, and oleic acid one part. The 
usual soldering metals are empl(\ved. such as silver solder, copper 
or hard solder, and tin solder. 

SOLDERTX(; ALUMINUM. 

Prominent among the peculiar characteristics of aluminum, as 
compared with other common metals, is its physical reluctance to 
(he acceptance of a fusihle alloy that will satisfactorily unite its 
surface or margins. Indeed, the lack of a perfect solder has seriously 
retarded the development and manufacture of articles made from 
sheet aluminum when their shape or contour is to be accomplished by 
the uniting of separate pieces in the evolution of the finished product. 

Aluminum is unique among tlie sheet metals of commerce in this 
respect, and a casual consideration of its physical properties will be 
necessary for an understanding of this difficulty. The reasons that 
aluminum is a refractory metal to solder are entirely physical. It 
is extremely difficult to expose a bare surface of aluminum to the 
action of a solder, although the mechanical difficulties of grease and 
dirt are quickdy and easily removed, and need not appear as features 
in the problem. 

Upon attempting, with any rrdinary solder, to join sheets of the 
metal, it is noticeable that the mixture does not take hold, but tends 
rather to run off. or perhaps it will chill, utterlv refusing to tin the 
sheets, and rarely adhering to the aluminum. The reason of this 
behavior is that there is alwa}'S present a thin continuous coatmg 
of oxide, which efl^ectually prevents the solder from getting to the 
true metal beneath. This thin, almost invisible skin of ahmiina. or 
oxide of the metal, is of instantaneous formation, and the surface 
of the metal may be scraped or filed without even temporary relief 
because of the immediate renewal of the coating. 

The use of fluxes and acids to overcome this difficulty have been 
lepeatedly suggested without securing satisfactory results, and a new 
theory tending toward the solution of the problem must needs be 



98 IIISIORN ()|- JJIF. .MILITARY CANTEEN. 

approved. Dr. Joseph W . kicliards, of Lclii.^li rnivcrsily. Rcth- 
lehem, Pa., conceived the successful practice of ovcrconiiu!:;' tlie 
difficulty by incorporating' into the coniijosition of the scdder iui 
ingredient that would remove the i:xide film during the process of 
soldering, thereby preserving the surfaces clean until the union of 
the parts had been accomplished. The solder devised and patented 
by Dr. Richards carries in its make-up an alloyed flux of phosphorous 
in tin, the theoretical necessity of the simultaneous action of the 
flux and the taking hold by the solder being confirmed during many 
years by the satisfactory- results obtained in actual commercial 
practice. 

The high heat conductivity of aluminum is another characteris- 
tic of this strange metal, and the refusal of many solders to per- 
form their expected duty is traceable to it. The aluminum quickly 
and readily absorbs the heat from the soldering iron, and the tem- 
perature of the tool is thus so far reduced that the solder "freezes" 
at the joint and failure ensues. To overcome this difficulty, which 
arises in large \\ork ])articularl_\-. it is necessary to keep the solder- 
ing iron very hot, and oftentimes it tends to the betterment of the 
result to apply heat likewise to the parts to be joined. 

Aluminum is a highly electro-negative metal, and it is this 
property that, in addition to causing the instantaneous formation 
of the thin skin of oxide already mentioned, tends to operate in 
another way, quite as disastrously, by setting up a galvanic action at 
the joint, between the solder and the aluminum, inducing failure 
through rapid disintegration. Therefore, in devising a solder, it is 
plain that it should be composed of those metals nearest to alum- 
inum in the galvanic series in order to reduce this disintegrating 
action to a minimum. Accordingly zinc suggests itself as an excel- 
lent base. 

Almost any one can solder aluminum by such simple means as 
using pure zinc or pure tin. or both in combination, and joints of 
accuracy and strength have been thus obtained. Upon these results, 
which are at best but temporary, yielding soon to the disintegrating 
influences above noted, have rested the reputations of manv of the 
so-called aluminum solders of commerce. 

It is not the purpose of these remarks to schedule the propor- 
tions of the various metals in the many alloys offered on the market 
under the name of solders, but rather to show, in a general way, 
the reasons of their repeated failures, and to suggest lines of thought 
and experimental work most likely to be productive of sensible re- 
sults. To be a commercial success, anv solder must conform to the 



HISTORY OF TIIR MIF^TTARV CANTEEN. 99 

f()ilo\vin,i4- U'f|uirLiiiciils : It iiuist take liold easily upon the altini- 
imini ; it must he conveniently handled without complicating- tools 
( r sundry lltixes ; it should melt readil_\- ; it must he strong, malleable 
and tough ; it must nnt combine elements inviting disintegration ; 
it should be of the same color as alumimim and it should not tarnish 
with age. To all of these condition's. Joseph Allison Steinmetz 
says. Dr. Joseph Ivichards' solder conforms. 

IV. C. Hcracus' Process for Welding Alumimnn. — .Mr. Heracus 
has platinum works at Hanau, Germany. Agent. in U. S., Mr. 
Charles Englehard. 41 Courtlandt St., Xew York City. It is claimed 
for the Heraeus process of welding aluminum, that the seams are 
united so intimately that they disappear and can be further shaped 
by hammering. Soldering aluminum, apart from all other diffi- 
culties, has the disadvantage that its powers of resistance at the 
soldered places is weakened against the influences of the atmosphere 
and these of a chemical nature. This disadvantage is oliviated when 
the metal is welded. The process is applicable to sheet, wire, thick 
plates and heavy l;ars. Aluminum cannot be used where it would 
come in contact with alkaline substances that attack it. In the re- 
sistance it ofi^ers to acids it reseml)les copper. Sulplnu-ic acid has 
but little effect on ahnuinum. When copper is exposed to air and 
moisture. ])oisonous verdigis will form, which is not the case with 
aluminum. Repairs by the Heraeus welding process can be easily 
done. Certain waters and acids corrode aluminum, but the metal dis- 
])laces copper when it comes in contact with neutral substances, as 
si)irits, sugar solutions, ether, glycerine, stearine, wax. beer, etc. 

RieJiards' Hardened Ahuninmn. — The Delaware Metal Refinery 
of Philadelphia ( i8th St. and Washington Ave.) are selling con- 
sideral)le quantities of hardened aluminum alloys, made after the 
fornndas and imder the direction of the superintendent. Mr. Joseph 
Richards. 

The principal constituents of these alloys are aluminum and zinc, 
in varying proportions, made from the purest metals, very thoroughly 
alloyed and carefully cast. The idea wdiich Mr. Richards had in view- 
in i)roducing them, is to provide a series of perfectly reliable and uni- 
form alloys, from a very hard rather brittle alloy, to a strong, tough 
softer alloy, thus forming a complete series adaptable for the nnxst 
varied applications. These alloys all approximate toward aluminum 
itself in weight, and duplicate the alloys from soft brass to the hard- 
est of the regular bronzes in strength and toughness. 



IITSTORV OF TliR MTLITARV CA XTl'.r.X. 




MetaZ/ic F'/ask. tviih ie/cscc/tic Cup and io/a conrii/ted. 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARV CANTEEN lOI 

Nine grades of alloys are made, numbered respeetively i, 2, 3, 
4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9. 

No. 1 is the hardest. It looks Hke pohshed steel, takes a lirilHant 
poHsh and has a hard surface. It can scarcely be cut by a knife. 
It is ahnost as rigid as steel, and machines like a fine quality me- 
dium hard steel Its specific gravity is 4, or just half that of brass 
or bronze. It is the cheapest of the alloys, costing less than pure 
aluminum, and objects made of it cost considerably less than if made 
of brass or bronze. 

No. 4 is a milder alloy and probably the one of the series having 
the maximum of working strength. 

ALrMIXU.M I'TENSILS. 

Alumimim utensils arc claimed by manufacturers U) ])e the only 
ware tliat is unobjectionable in every respect. 

Arsenic and Lead in Enameled Ware. — Joseph Stanton has ex- 
amined in the laboratory of the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, 
the iron enamel covered utensils so much used in the kitchen. On 
the Bo.ston market were found thirteen distinct brands of this ware. 
These, when tested, gave the following results: Eleven contained 
arsenic, two contained lead, and two were free from both arsenic 
and lead, l^he two that contained lead also contained arsenic. The 
;;i)])roximate amounts of arsenic, as indicated by comparison of the 
mirrors, obtained with nu'rrors made from known quantities of 
metallic arsenic, varied from 1.3200 to 1.500 of a grain in each two 
grams of enamel. Professor r)aird in making this report (at the 
last meeting of the Massachusetts I'harmaceutical Association) said: 
'Tn this connection it woidd be interesting to know whether the 
arsenic and lead are in such combinations as to allows their solubility 
in the fluids which come in contact with them in ordinary cooking. As 
the enamels seemed to be ([uite easily disintegrated by the mineral 
acids, it is quite probable that from them lliese poisonous metals would 
I'c found to dissolve in dilute fnut acids and dilute alkaline solutions, 
and that in this manner they ma\" become a source of arsenic and 
lead contamination."" It was also said in this report: 'Tn former 
years arsenic and lead were both ver\- common ingredients of 
enameled wares, especiall}' the latter metal. In fact, compounds of 
lead were used to such an extent that the lead could be extracted 
by boiling with dilute fruit acids, and lead poisoning from this 
source became so fre(|uent that certain countries made !n\\s restrict- 



102 lilSTURV OF THE MlLiTAKV CANTEEN. 

ing the sale of enameled wares containing lead in soluble form." — 
"Druggists Circular and Chemical Gazette." 

The "Review of Reviews" says : "Probably the most important 
use to which aluminum will be put, at least in the immediate future, 
will be for culinary and household utensils. Besides being very 
light, and hence far less cumbersome than any other metal of equal 
strength and durability used in cooking, aluminuui is practically 
incorrodible. Professor Jamieson asserts that, no food nozv knozvn 
io man can effect this metal in the slightest degree. It is wholly 
free from every form of poison and zeill not taint food. These 
are qualities that are possessed by neither iron, copper, tin, nor lead. 
Furthermore, it is a l)ctter conductor of lieat tlian either of the other 
metals." 

"The poisonous substances in the enamels are said to be arsenic, 
antimony, and lead. Neither of these is nutritious, and food is 
better without them. It may be that some of the slight and imac- 
countable illnesses that have come to people especially after eating- 
sour fruits and vegetables boiled or stewed in these dishes — toma- 
toes, rhubarb, strawberries, compounds flavored with lemon — have 
their origin in disintegration of this enamel and in the absorption 
by the food of the arsenic or whatsoever else is employed in it. 
Even where the enamel is commonly applied with skill and under- 
standing it may happen that a workman ma\' spill an undue quar.cit}' 
of poison into the mixture, or that the fusing may hz imperfect; 
and it does not take much arsenic or lead to cause illness, while 
a succession of poisonings may result in lifelong stomach trouble." — 
"Brooklyn Eagle" Editorial. 

Enameled canteens were purchased by the United States from 
the Dubuque Enameling Co., in December, 1898, also in October, 
1898, likewise in January. 1900. (h'cir description of the Dulni(|ue 
Enameling Co. canteen see page 9 of this monograph). They were 
issued for trial. No reports of results of trial, if made, have since 
reached the Rock Island Arsenal. The canteens made in October, 
1898, at the Rock Island Arsenal had a special wide mouth t;) 
admit certain filters purchased from Airs. Caroline Parker. (See 
])age 8, this report, under subhead "The Parker Canteen.") Tn 
August, 1900, some more filters were purchased from Mrs. Parker 
and from the Dubuque Enameling Co. a special canteen for them. 
These, too, were issued for trial. 

The Dubuque Enameled Canteen Co. is profiting by the facts 
advanced by the parties who recommend the Lanz method in this 
notable respect, viz ; They put Petersham felt on what was, at 



IIISTUKV OF Tilli MILITARY CANTEEN. IO3 

first, a naked flask, and they not only place two pieces next the 
rtask, but they have added an extra piece of felt, forty-two inches 
long by one inch wide, as an inner band, thus increasing the ab- 
sorptive powers over those possessed by the regulation canteen. 

This adoption of the method and system whereof Mr. Lanz 
is the originator, exponent, advocate, and patentee, is an admission 
t)f much significance and highly complimentary tc Mr. Lanz. That 
the Ordnance Department and Board of Fortification and Equip- 
ment concur is evinced by the fact that so many of the enameled 
canteens have been purchased by the United States. 

As the enamel canteen with regulation cover is heavier than the 
regulation canteen ; further, as any enameled ware having arsenic, 
lead, or antimony in its composition is dangerous to health ; still 
further, as the enamel will chip off and the iron part rust ; there 
do not appear to be any jKjints of advantage favoring the further 
trial of the Dubuque, Iowa, Stamping & Enamel Co. Canteen, with 
a view to its adoption for use in the military service of the United 
States. 



Aluminuin Coated Sheet Steel. — The Aluminum Coated Sheet 
Steel Company, Connellsville, Fayette Co., Pa., claims that "this 
])roduct is superior in all respects to galvanized. That it contains 
all of its merits with none of its defects. That it can be heated to 
a red heat without destroying its coating. That sulphurous gases, 
brine, salt, and acids do not affect it as readily as they do galvanized. 
That it can be soldered with common solder. That it will stand 
even severer tests than any coated metal. That no coated metal 
can be seamed or hammered dovvu fiat and then bent back straight 
without flaking. None but solid metal will do this. 

That, Aliiiniiniin Coated Steel Sheets eaii be bent or seamed 
in any way reepiired in actual work and the coating will remain 
intact on both sides. Ikit no coated metal can be bent flat on itself 
and return to its original shape without showing fracture in 
coating. This is not necessary and if Aluminum Coated Sheets are 
given the same work as galvanized they will prove in every w^ay 
superior and all we claim for them. 

That any intelligent metal worker will recognize these facts 
and will not expect impossibilities." 

This firm gives the following directions for flux to solder this 
metal : "Dissolve as much spelter as your muriatic acid will take 
lip. L'se the same without dihiting with water. Never add fresh 



104 lUSTORV OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

acid to blacken your metal. Other Huxes. .such as rusin, and pahn 
oil, may he used with success." 



The following- is a copy of a communication addressed to the 
Patton Paint Company, Milwaukee. Wis. : 

It may be an advance 'backward to construct a soldier's canteen 
of wood. 

I enclose cut of a canteen carrietl by the L'. S. Army duriny; the 
period of our second war with England, 1812, by reference to which 
you will see that it was then composed c^f many pieces, like a barrel, 
tub, firkin, fig drum, etc. 

Could .you not get one constructed of suitable wood or indurated 
fiber or wood pulp, tm-ned m one piece, jiainted by your process 
insiile and out? 

The normal use of ihe canteen is lo carry water, cotiee and 
tea. Government does not c()ntenii)late furnishing the soldier with 
a water bottle, the lining of which should be capable of resisting the 
action of whisky or other alcoholic fluid. 

A wooden water bottle was carried for }ears in the English 
.\rmy, the exterior of which was painted blue ; but before I should 
feel justified in recommending a return to a canteen made of wood 
instead of sheet tin, J would have to be satisfied that one con- 
.--tructed of this material would meet the recpiirements of dura- 
bility, etc. 

I would be glad to iia\e _\()U institute a series (jf experiments 
whereof you write, looking toward covering l)oth the inside and the 
outside of the flask in such a wa;\- that it would resist the action (jf 
everything including distinctly acid fluids. 

Whatever canteen is adopted for ihv use of our soldiers will 
have to be provided with a non-conducting cover. 

To the above the Comi)any replies as follows: 

"We thank you for the blue|)rint received with }our letter, and 
hope soon to begin our experiments as to covering inside and out- 
side in such a way that the covering will be impervious to the 
action of everything except fluids which are distinctly acid or 
alkaline. 

"It is easy enough to begin a series of experiments, but it takes 
a long- time to complete them. We would not be satisfied to report 
on anything in the way of a test of permanency under six months or 
a year of constant use for the purpose required, as we carry on our 
experiments. 

"We will lei }-ou know from time to time how we are progressing 



rif STORY OF THE MILITAKV CANTEEN. 



105 




V 



3>tj^ piece A/umini)m Carrfeerr tf^^/^of '^rmy 7fefu/aiio/f pattern /S99. 
MifuAicfurictC hy Carl Hero £re^t*rf. tVitsipkalia. , OerrrroHy Cot,en:<i y%,>i}t 
'' ' ^d c/oifi, Sirf^/e i^'cArtc33 ■ ^urntshcd tv/ih bkick /eather /oapi 



aitd stra/s} Cryf:>oc>*u , XS f/utel 01 . 



106 lilSTUKV OF THE MILITAKV CANTEEN. 

ciHc! will hope to be in a position to make a definite statement as to 
what we ean do within perliaps eight months from tliis time."' 



Disadvantages of Aluiiiiiinin as a Material for Canteen Flaslcs, from 
■ a Meehanieal Point of Vieie. 

After a metallnrgist has placed in the hands of the inventor a 
nK.'tal lighter than tin as a material for a canteen flask, the artisan 
encounters a mechanical difficult}-, to wit : In attaching ears, or side 
pieces, to the flask. 

There must be something connected either with the flask, or its 
cover, to fasten the canteen strap or sling to — unless the latter goes 
round the canteen as in the 1864 period of the U. S. A. 

There are two natural ways of slinging a canteen ; one w ay is 
from the shoulder, the other wa}' is from the belt. 

In either case, the strap must have a method of atLachmenl, as 
by a hook or snap, with the canteen flask or with some jj^rtion of 
the canteen cover ; otherwise the straj) must encircle the canteen. 

This attachment necessitates loops, rings or triangles. e_\es, open- 
ings, etc., on the canteen cover, or ears, metallic side-bar attach- 
ments, or other fastening device, directly connected with the canteen 
flask; hence attached to the latter by solder or rivet. 

A disadvantage of aluminuin as the material for a canteen flask 
is that with the present limited knowledge of this metal, it cannot 
be so soldered to itself as to resist water action. Galvanic action 
occurs between aluminum and any known solder wdien wet for a 
considerable period. Disintegration follow^s. 

This should prevent the adoption liy any army (if an aluminum 
canteen flask an}' of the ])arts vA whicli are joined 1)}' soldering. 

As solder fails to assure a ]K'rmanent tmion of aluminum to 
aluminum, rivets are resorted to in order to fasten the side-ears, or 
other metallic contrivance, to tlie aluminum flask. This is practical, 
but not believed to l)e enduring. Leakage follows. A method of 
reliably fastening ears to an aluminum flask is unknow^n to me. 

Tin as a material for a canteen flask does not present any of 
these disadvantaees. 



Reason Why Old Pattern Canteens Have Been Retained in 
U. S. Army Since 18/4 or iSyS. — Past attempts to improve, change 
or retire the army canteen have been blocked by two things, viz.: 
The representation by a Department head that there were already 
I n band a large stock of old canteens ; hence these unissued relics 



lIISTUkV OF THE MILITAUV CANTEEN. IO7 

(if a past period ought, in economic interests, to be disposed of 
first. 

Second : The recommendation of the Commanding General that 
tlie old stock be disposed of before incurring the expense of a new, or 
later, pattern. 

Finally : The orders uf the Secretary of War directing that 
future issues of canteens be confined to existing patterns in stock, 
and prohibiting any expenditures for new patterns. This injunction 
applying also to other Infantry and Cavalry equipments. 

Efforts Made in i8/8-g to Change the U. S. Service Canteen. — 
\n General Orders No. 76. Headquarters of the Army, A. G. O., 
July 23, 1879, there were published extracts from the proceedings, 
embod3ing the conclusions, of the Board of Offtcers convened in 
Washington, D. C, by Special Orders on Nov. 11, 1878, "for the 
purpose of considering the whole subject of '•' * * the equip- 
ment of troops generally" ; together with the comments of the 
Chief of Ordnance, the General of the "Army, William T. Sherman, 
and the indorsement of the Secret.ary thereon. 

The Board found the weight of the canteen, half-filled, to be 
two (2) pounds eight (8) ounces. 

The recommendations of the Board were disapproved by the 
Chief of Ordnance, there being then on hand, left from the Civil 
War, 267,000 canteens which, in the opinion of General Benet, 
ought to be used up before others were provided. 

The recommendation of the General of the Army was : 28 "That 
no other ch.ange be made in the present infantry equipment, though 
a lighter canteen would be desirable."' General Sherman commented 
( see page 40, G. O. 76, A. G. O., series 1879) : "The old pattern 
articles, that is canteens and such, can be issued till exhausted, and 
the new ones will then follow naturally and without sacrifice on 
tlie part of the United States, or of the officers and men who com- 
pose the army." 

The views and recommendations of the General of the Army were 
ap]irovcd July 19, 1879, by the Hon. G. W. McCrary, Secretary of 
War. who indorsed the recommendations made by the Board, the 
Chief of Ordnance, the Quartermaster General of the Army, and 
General William T. .Shcrmrui, as follows : "No change will be 
made at any time wliich involves expenditure not clearly within 
existing approjiriations, and great care will be taken to avoid a 
deficiencv." 

On Oct. 7. T873. the Chief .^f Ordnance, U. S. A.. Brigadier- 



108 lllSTOKV OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

General A. B. Dyer, recommended that a Board of Ordnance and 
Cavalry Officers be assembled to consider "What changes," if any, 
.shonld be made in ■' * * cavalry equipments and accouter- 
ments, as published by G. O. No. 60, War Department, A. G. O., 
June 29, 1872. 

Board was convened by Special Orders Xo. 238, Nov. 29, 1873, 
modified by Special Orders Xo. 2^;^, War Dept.. A. G. O., 
Dec. 24, 1873. Report of proceedings made from Water- 
vliet Arsenal, West Troy, N. Y., May 5, 1874, by Colonel I. N. 
Palmer, 2d Cavalry, president of the Board. The Board consisted 
of the following: Col. Innis X^. Palmer, 2d Cavalry; Capt. J. J. 
Upham, 6th Cavalry; Capt. A. Mordecai, Ord. Dept.; Capt. Guy \ . 
Henry, 3d Cavalry, and Capt. L. H. Carpenter, loth Cavalry; also 
Capt. William Hawlc}', 3(1 Cavalry, in place of Major Henn-. re- 
lieved. 

The proceedings of the Board, with the action of the War De- 
partment thereon, were published in Ordnance Memoranda No. 18, 
1874. Under the caption "Canteens," page 18. is found the follow- 
ing: "Canteen. It was discussed as to whether the canteen should 
be covered with two thicknesses, and felt was suggested as a good 
material." Xo other reference l)y title, to canteen is found in the 
published report, except, same page, the following: "A resolution 
was adopted requesting the commanding officer cf the Leavenworth 
Arsenal to make for the use of the Board the following articles 
after description furnished : ■■'■ "■ " One canteen with two cov- 
erings." And, on page 57, the following: "The Board is of the 
opiuion that to the accouterments should be added a canteen of 
])attern and material like sample submitted." On page 18 Board 
expresses opinion that the regular equipments necessary for a cav- 
alry trooper are as follows : * * * One canteen " * * On 
page 69, it is stated that "A personal examination lias convinced the 
Pjoard of the superior quality of the manufacture and material of 
the articles furnished from the government w^orkshops over those 
obtained by contract, and it is earnestly recommended that, as far 
as possible, all stores issued to the cavalry by the Ordnance Depart- 
ment may be made in the Arsenals, believing that to be for the best 
interests of the service." 

On May 11, 1874, the Acting Chief of Ordnance, Col. S. A'. 
Benet, indorsed proceedings, concurring in recommendations of the 
IJoard, ])ut in carrying out the changes, alterations, and additions 
recommended, suggested "that the ]:\v^v ([uantity of stores on hand 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. IO9 

of old patterns be utilized and the changes, etc., he made as rapidly 
as a due regard to economy will permit." 

On Ma\- 15, 1874, Gen. W. T. Sherman indorsed that he "felt 
hardly competent to pass judgment on the matter of cavalry equip- 
ment, and would be governed by the opinions of the cavalry officers 
who serve on the plains and have abundant experience. The present 
stock on hand could be exhausted gradually, leaving the new equip- 
ment to accumulate in store, ready for emergency, or for use after 
llie present supply is exhausted." 

On May 20, 1874, the Secretary of War, through H. T. Crosby, 
chief clerk, concurred with the General of the Army and the Chief 
of Ordnance that the stores on hand of all patterns should be 
utilized before issue of new patterns except in regard to horse 
shoes." 



The Chief of Ordnance, U. S. Army, in his annual report for the 
fiscal year ended June 30, 1894, states under head of "Aluminum 
Equipments" : "Experiments with articles of equipment made of 
aluminum and its alloys have been continued during the year at 
various posts and at the Rock Island Arsenal, and very intelligent 
assistance has been given to the department by manufacturers. 
Successful results have been obtained in the manufacture of spurs, 
waist-belt plates, and several minor articles ; but in those cases in 
which, from their importance as articles of considerable weight, 
success was hoped for most — such as l)its, cups, meat cans, picket 
])ins and horseshoes — the desired quality of metal has not }-et been 
olitained. A very promising canteen has been designed, but not 
yet tested by the department, and experiments will be continued as 
rapidly as possible." 



Recommendation That Canteens Nozv Disposable Be Sold. — 
Citation of Statute Permitting It. — Recommendation is made, under 
opinion of Assistant Comptroller Mitchell, and Section 1241 of the 
Revised Statutes, that all canteens not in the hands of troops be sold 
as unsuitable for the public service. 

One of the synonyms of "suitable" is "expedient." An article 
may be suitable as far as possibility is concerned, and not suitable 
because it is not expedient to transport it to the place where it 
might be used, or to the person who could use it. 

It is thought that the present stock of old pattern canteens are 
not suitable for militarv service. It is neither wise nor economical 



TIlSTOm' or TTIF. .Ml 




Meia//ic Cantec/r /^/us/c . cne /hce cc/^cai^e, c/yjostte 
face corrueii .■ dubmiited, ly the LanJ: Cafii^ei^ Co., 
Chicago, J^il. Ornantiittoi- tvarA, nrvwA tciye , 



lilSTOR^' OF Till': MILITARY CAXTKEN. Ill 

to rclain lln'in in j^ovcniiiuiU aiseiiaK. armories or (le])ols. They 
>lioul(l he sol(L It is sulMiiitled thai these aets justify this (hsposi- 
lion of these ohsolete articles of.e([uii)nient. They arc important 
as hearing upon the Assistant Comptroller's view : 

The first is the old law of March 23, 1825, upon which section 
1241, Revised Statutes is based, and which is as follows: "That the 
President be, and he is hereby, authorized to cause to be sold any 
ordnance, ammunition, or other military stores, or subsistence, or 
medical supplies, which upon proper inspection or survey, whenever 
in his 1 opinion the sale of such unserviceable stores will be advan- 
tageous to the public service ; that the inspection or survey of the 
unserviceable stores shall be made by an inspector general or such 
other officer or officers as the secretary of war may appoint for that 
purpose and the sales shall be made under such rules and regulations 
as may be prescribed by the secretary of war." 

The other act is that of March 29, 1894, wdiich provides that in- 
stead of forwarding to the accounting ofificers of the Treasury De- 
partment returns of public property intrusted to the possession of 
officers or agents, "the quartermaster general, commanding general 
of subsistence, and other like stafT officers in any department, by. 
through, or under whom stores, supplies and other public property 
are received for distribution, or whose duty it is to receive or ex- 
amine returns of such property, shall certify to the proper account- 
ing officer of the Treasury Department for debiting on the proper 
account any charge against any officer or agent intrusted with public 
property arising from any loss, accruing by his fault to the govern- 
ment as to the property so intrusted to him." 

The act of July 31, 1894, confines the duty of the comptroller 
to decisions "upon any question involving a payment" made by 
disbursing officers. 

If Assistant Comptroller Mitchell's ruling is published officially 
it will make possible an arrangement whereby not only unservicea- 
l)le canteens in excess of future needs of the army, but also horses, 
nniles, wagons, or other army material, not first class, hardly worth 
reshipping, can 1)e sold as damaged or unsuitable for the ]:)ublic 
service, after proper inspection or survey, and when the sale of such 
will l)e advantageous to the public interests. 

It is submitted that the sale of all canteens now in store in gov- 
ernment arsenals, armories or depots, of the 1874 pattern, or 1878 
or later pattern, will be advantageous to the public service because 
tlie presumption is that the appropriation for the purchase and man- 



112 inSTORV OF Till': .MlLITAin' CAXTEEN. 

iifacUirc or fal)rication, of equipments for infantry, and acct inter- 
ments for eavalrw will l)e adequate to provide new model eanteens. 

It is understcHul that the ariwy appropriation bill, second series, 
56th Congress, carries with it for repairing- and preserving ordnance, 
$75,000; for purchase and manufacture, to till requisitions of troops, 
$500,000; for infantry, cavalry, and artillery equipments, $750,000. 

The Chief of ( )rdnance. U. S. Army, is quoted as follows : "The 
ordnance depot at Manila is now supplying" an army of nearly 70,000 
men, scattered about among the islands, and yet there is but one 
officer available for duty at this post in addition to the chief ordnance 
officer whose time is fully occupied with the duties of general admin- 
istration. 

The improvement of material l)eing under way at all times, 
technical officers must at all times be in touch with it, not only in 
the hands of troops, but also with the vast accumulations in reserve. 
The relations of the department to the line of the army should be 
close and intimate in order that the ex])erience of the troops shall 
be available for the instruction and guidance of the department. 
and that the wants of the combatant branch ( f the army may l)e 
l)romptly met by the supply departments. 

It has been impossible of late years to s])are officers for this duty, 
the lack of which brings wrongfully on the department the blame of 
responsibility for it. 

The ordnance establishments are by no means adequate to pro- 
duce all the material required, and a greater part of this material 
is procured under contract. In the last two years, at many of the 
establishments from which such material has been secured, there 
have been no inspectors, and several establishments have been looked 
after by one inspector. If the inspection be not thorough, inferior 
material is likely to come into tb.e service, with the resulting criti- 
cism of the ( )rdnance Department, and what is worse, a possible 
failure of the material at an important juncture." 



lliSTORV UF TUi: .MILILAKV CANTEEN. 



113 



Proceedings of Board of Officers to Examine and Test Canteens, 
at Rock Island, (111.) Arsenal, Aug. 22 to Sept. 15, 1900. 



Between August 22 and September 5, 1900, nine or ten tests of two Regulation 
and two Lanz Canteens were made at Rock Island Arsenal by a board of three Officers 
of the Ordnance Department, pursuant to orders from the Chief of Ordnance and de- 
tail by the Commanding Officer of the Arsenal. 

Exhibit "A" of the proceedings of the Board is as follows: 



Manner of 
Date. making 

Experiment. 



Hours 
Exposed. 



Aug. 
22 

Aug. 

2.1 



Aug. 
24 

Aug. 
25 

Aug. 

27 

Aug. 



Sept . 

Sept, 

4 
Sept 

5 



Covers dry ; expos'd 
on window sill, in 
sun t 9 



TEMPERATURE OK 



Min. I Max. 



Deg. Deg. 



Water 
when put 

in 
Canteen. 

Deg. 



.All except U.S. No. 
I had felt wet. with 
canvas covers dry. 
U.S.No. landfelt 
wet. On window 
sil, in sun 



S6 



96 



9 t. 



Same as in previous 
e.\periment e.\cept 
hung over boile 
in boiler room . - 

Same as on Aug. 23 
except hung in sun 
with free circula- 
tion of air. . 

Both felt and canvas 
covers thoroughly 
wet and expos'd as 
on Aug. 25 

Same as preceding. 
A third U. S. can- 
teen was hung up 
dry and had a tem 
perature of 96 deg. 
at end of exprmt 

Under glass, wiilil 
free accessof air. . 10 t< 



Under glass, same 
as preceding ex- 
periment 

Same as preceding 
experiment 



Water in Canteen 
at expiration of time. 



U. S. 

No. I, 

Deg. 



U. S. 

No. 2. 

Deg. 



103 



10 to 2 

10 to 3 



78 



84 



99 



75 
56 (iced) 



80^ 
103'/, 

87 
94 



82 
100 



92 

93 >^ 



Lanz i Lanz 
No. 3. 'No. 4. 

Deg. Deg. 



98 lOI 

90 j 92 

85/2 j 84 
78 I 79 
75K 



82^ 
99>^ 

94 



81^ 
100 



Tlie Weights of Canteens, their Contents, etc., were as follows: 



1 U. S. No. I. 

1 


U. S. No. 2. 


Lanz No. 3. 


Lanz No. 4. 




ozs. 


ozs. 


ozs. 


ozs. 


Empty and cover dry 


!■',', 


l=^l\ 


23-ff 


IS/ir 


Full of water, cover dry.. ..,. 


.^"t'h 


59VV 


••+A 


50 U 


Cover saturated with water. 
Canteen full 


65^\ 


65-j-''g 


80-,6-g 


68 


Weight of water in Canteen.. 


■iSfV 


40 iv 


^m 


40tS 


Weight of water absorbed by 


■ '^ 


« 


1(3 


^h 







114 



Mii.n \m- 



Two tests were coiichuleHl in four lionrs. 

Two experiments oceupied five hours eaeli. 

One test consumed five and one-half hours. 

Two of the tests were each of six hours' duration. 

These tests do not appear to have been made in accordance with 
the printed conditions upon which the claims of the Lanz Canteen 
are based and stated to be requisite in (^rder to demonstrate those 
claims. 

This statement particularly applies to the length of time claimed 
by that Company as requisite — in an environment or temperature 
above blood heat — in which tt) prove the merits of the Lanz Canteen 
and general superiority of the device. — See Claim IX. 

It appears that the Board followed the methods outlined by Mr. 
Lanz in his letter and circular, August, 1900. describing his canteen 
and the experiments luade by the inventor with the L\ S. and his 
own canteens. 

The experiments of the Board were conducted, the commanding- 
officer states, with care and fairness, and he agreed with its conclu- 
sions. 

Except ni passing judgment on the fiattened side of the fiask, 
the opinion as to the advantage of the removable cover and its ser- 
viceableness, the conclusions of the (Jrdnance Board were liased 
upon the results of the nine or ten tests quoted. 

These results dififered materially from those of the inventor of 
the Lanz Canteen. Besides its conclusions upon those results, the 
Board was of the opinion that none of the canteens had any appre- 
ciable advantage over the others in the temperature of the water 
they contained. The Board found but a slight difference in the 
relative conductivity of the covers of the canteens ; referred to the 
fact that the Lanz was heavier, held less water than the Regulation 
Canteen, and added that for a period of at least six hours the gov- 
ernment canteen will keep water as cool as the Lanz canteen. 
It sustained, or conceded. Claims II, IW and part of Claims I, III 
and V, also VI ; also the claim, but not the conclusion, of X\', in the 
following finding ; quotation from the proceedings and summary 
of theBoard, viz. : "The cover of the Lanz Canteen possesses greater 
absorptive powers than that of the Government Canteen, conse- 
quently it would appear that this canteen would keep water at a 
lower temperature for a longer period under similar conditions than 
the Government Canteen." 



lusrouN' (II- Tin-: mh-itarv caxteex. 



Jiarlsriifie , JSacleft. 6e_r. ^/umLttum Canteen - 
cace-red. hy the Gefntan fneihoA, sirr^/e /elt 
iviih han^iny stra^ f-'vr Cat^a/r^. a/so camj s(n/' 
for Infanitij oitoc'/ed i.n ^ostiton. Co/Doctti^ bo 





Carrying Sim/-. 



3ca/e: 4 




1 l6 UlSTOKV OF THE MILlTAKv' CANTIiEN. 

Claims oi" thk Lanz Manufacturing Company Rkgakding 

THIv "lyANZ CaNTEp:N." 

l<Sj-(j Lake Si reel, Chicago III., .Ingiisf S'lli, ic^oo. 

1. That the Lanz Canteen will keep water eool at a low tem- 
perature, or warm liquids at a high temperature, longer than any 
other canteen of equal capacity. 

2. That the drinkable condition of the liquids carried in the 
Lanz Canteen will continue for a longer period, either in cold or 
hot climates, than in any other Canteen of equal capacity. 

3- That its method of retarded evaporation secures palatable 
drinking water in either tropical or arctic regions for a longer time 
than the Regulation Canteen now used b}' the U. S. A. 

4. That the felt will remain moist fnr a number of hours longer 
than the imier co\er of felt used on the Regulation Canteen; hence 
the water remains cool for many hours longer in the Lanz Canteen 
than the same amount of water similarly exposed to a high tem- 
perature in the Regulation Canteen or any other Canteen used in 
military service, or submitted for experimental trial. 

5. These results are accomplished, in jxirt, by a removable, open- 
able canvas cover, and, in ])art, b\- means of an inner cover of felt, 
the latter being of a qualit}' and thicknes.s superior tO' the felt used 
on the Regulation Canteen, and by using a greater quantity of felt 
as an inner cover than is used on the Regulation Canteen. These 
covers and methods are explained and secured by L'. S. Patent No. 
655,979, August 14th, 1900. 

6. The results are due to the methods observed and materials 
with which the Lanz Canteen is covered, the latter being compo- 
nents of the Canteen. The absorbent properties of the Lanz felt 
cover, and subsequent retarded evaporation, are the agents, in hot 
weather, to keep the contents of the canteen flask cool. 

7. In cold weather, the non-conducting properties of the com- 
ponents of the Canteen, the covers being dry, tend to preserve the 
contents of the flask from freezing. 

8. The openable and removable cover possesses advantages not 
possessed by the Regulation Canteen ; it is, with proper care, equal 
Lo it in durability. The shape of the patented metallic flask is 
advantageous and is superior to the Regulation Canteen, all of which 
entitles the Lanz Canteen to practical trial by troops actually in the 
field, or in campaign, with a view to its adoption by the LTnited 
States for use in the military service. 

9. Particular stress is laid upon the fact that the merits of the 
Lanz Canteen are not made so apparent by a short open-air expos- 



HISTORY OF THE MIL,ITARV CAXTEEX. \iy 

lire of five or six hours, cr loss ; or by testa made under temperate, 
or moderate, thermometric eonditicMis— as by eom])arisons made after 
an exposure of at least eight (8) hours under thermal conditions 
ranging above blood heat, 96° F., or below the freezing point, t,2' ¥. 

10. As a Canteen is always worn by every combatant soldier 
when in the field, or campaign, as an essential article of personal 
equipment, but only occasionally worn when troops are in garrison, 
it is preferred that all tests of Canteens shoidd be made by officers 
actually on duty with troops in the field, or campaign, and not by 
officers whose duties confine them to arsenal, or garrison, or depot 
duty. 

11. In' hot weather, tlial is, when the open air temperature is 
above blood heat, 96° F., ihc felt covering must be satin"ated, or 
moistened, in order to demonstrate the merit of the Lanz method 
as opposed to the Regulation method of covering the metallic f^ask. 

12. As an important distinction between the Lanz and the Regu- 
lation Canteen covers is the difference in the material, and the 
amount of material, with which they are covered, it is essential 
that the fastenings of the outer cover of the Lanz be drawn up tight, 
after the Canteen has been immersed, so as to permit air from 
gaining access, and the process of evaporation thus retarded or 
interfered with. 

13. Only in moderate weather and in winter weather should the 
felt be left dry. In hot weather the felt must be kept moist. To 
elTfect this last named requisite, the canvas cover must be sli])i)ed 
off entirely, or the lacing or fastenings of the canvas loosened. 

14. The facility with which the Lanz openable cover can be 
removed is a decided advantage over the outer cover of the Regula- 
tion Canteen, because the latter is tightly sewn up around its entire 
circumference, hence the service Canteen may be immersed in water 
without properly effecting saturation of the inner cover. 

15. As the inner cover of the Lanz Canteen possesses greater 
absorptive powers than the Government Canteen, it will keep water 
at a lower temperature for a longer time under similar circumstances 
than the Government Canteen, hence possesses merits sufficient to 
warrant a trial in the military service with a view to its adoption in 
lieu of the Regulation Canteen. 

16. In cold, or cool, weather, the felt, of course, is not moist- 
ened, in which condition it will maintain the heat of the fluid con- 
tents for a longer period than the Regulation Canteen, and so lessen 
the danger of freezing. 

17. The Lanz Manufacturing Company can furnish Canteens 



Il8 HISTORY OF I'HE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

and their components of any specified weight or indicated fluid 
capacity, whether less than, equal to, or greater than, the Govern- 
ment Canteen, utilizing for the purpose any metal or material, or 
of any prescribed pattern or model desired, retaining, of course, its 
non-conducting inner fabric or textile cover, and also retaining the 
removable, openable, patented outer cover and fastening methods. 

i8. The advantages of the Lanz Canteen are more than appre- 
ciated by soldiers when in the field or during a campaign in a tropical 
region, or on a hot day, because conducive to comfort, effective- 
ness and health. 

19. The Lanz Manufacturing Company claims to be able to 
produce a canteen flask, retinned after the plate has been stamped 
into shape, and which may have a piece of zinc soldered to the 
inside, or, perhaps, a zinc nozzle, the durability of which retinned 
flask will largely exceed that of the Regulation Canteen, and which 
will prevent oxidation for at least four times as long as the Regu- 
lation Canteen. 

Commendations and recommendations are exhibited b}^ the 
Company from the following named Army officers: Col. J. M. J. 
Sanno, 18th Infantry; ^laj. i'. H. Ray. 8th Infantry; Maj. S. L. 
Woodward, ist Cavalry; Assistant Surgeon A. E. Bradley, Medical 
Dept. ; Assistant Surgeon S. M. Waterhouse. Medical Dept. ; Capt. 
Geo. W. Goode, ist Cavalry; ist Lieut. W. M. Whitman, ist Cav- 
alry; 2d Lieut. H. C. Smithcr. ist Cavalry; 2(1 Lieut. F. W. Healy, 
8th Infantry; 2d Lieut. A. \'. L. R. de Beaumont, 8th Infantry; 2d 
Lieut L. A. I. Chapman, ist Cavalry; C^rdnance Sergeant Alexander 
Pillow, U. S. A.; Sergeant J. K. Miller, 3d Infantry. Also from 
several l)usiness and manufacturing firms emploving laborers, arti- 
ficers, etc. Likewise from tourists, bic}clists. sportsmen, officers of 
L^ S. \'olunteers, National Guardsmen, etc. 

The Company supplements its ]ni})]ishe(l list of testimonials l)y 
two temperature tests, one a hot weather test made on the roof of 
theLanz factory ; the other a cold weather ojien air test. In each 
trial a L^. S. Army canteen is also said to have been used in com- 
jxarison. 

Xaturally, the results as published, were highly favoral)le to the 
Lanz Canteen. The first test covered a period of seven hours. 



SanitatiOxN: and Hygiene as Appeied to Canteens. 
The use of polhUed water is a factor dangerous to health and ac- 
counts for the provaknce of disease in localities where other sanitary 
conditions are beyond reproach. It is the part of wisdom to remove 



IllSTOKV OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. IIQ 

danger of possible contamination by the use of a canteen which can 
be completely emptied, drained and even sterilized. 

By inserting the little finger in the mouth-piece of the present 
regulation tin flask canteen, there can be felt enough abiding places 
for pathogenic germs and micro-organisms to make the use of the 
canteen a dangerous factor after polluted water has once entered 
the flask'. 

In the regulation canteen, the mouth-piece is either inserted or 
applied like a spout. In either case, it is a separate piece of sheet tin, 
soldered on. The projections and rough edges become nesting places 
for waste matter, and breeding places for things dangerous to 
health, even after pure or sterilized water has been deposited in it. 

Soldiers have not access to germicidal supplies, nor can the in- 
sides of canteens be inspected in the way that health officers inspect 
milk cans, pans, dairies, and creameries. The present regulation 
canteen can carry typhoid. As bacteriological examinations cannot 
be made of canteens where the latter are daily carried as a portion of 
the field equipment. — it would be wise to abandon the present regu- 
lation canteen and adopt in lieu one differing in material, construc- 
tion and shape. 



'Comparison of the Armies in China — Narrative by an Ameri- 
can War Correspondent About Canteens, Other 
Personal Equipments ok a Soldier, 
and Army Water Supply. 

The dweller in towns can have no conception of what the lack of 
a plentiful supply of good water is. Water, to them, like air, is 
cheap and common. During the interval between our Civil War and 
the Spanish- American War, the only soldiers of our army who ap- 
preciated the value of water, and of a good canteen, were such of 
the military establishment as had service in arid regions in hot 
weather, and hence had been compelled to rely upon the article of 
personal equipment named. 

Thomas F. Millard, writes from China : "Examine military med- 
ical statistics and you will find that half the ills an army is heir to 
are directly traceable to the use of bad water. I sometimes wonder 
whether we Americans shall ever learn some things, and generally 
sadly reach the conclusion that we never shall. In this problem of 
armv water supply, the Japanese stand for efficiency — the Ameri- 
cans for (fefieieiiey. with other nations struggling along somewhere 
between. The water in North China is so bad that resident Euro- 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAX' 



D 



Mir^sri4ie, Saden, 6er^ar>u y4/umfuni /^/ask ■ // s ^ ;^ „ • o 




Ordrrance nt(ter/r, dculU coi/tr /e/iJ- 
H^eiy^t /4 ox auoi,Jaiupci,s 



Scale: /x 









HISTORY OF l^PIE MILITARY CANTEEN. 121 

peans will nut drink it nniil ii iia> Ix'cn huilcil and lihi'Vcd. The iacl 
was well known before a foreign soldier set foot at Takn. It was 
also realized that there was danger of wells being poisoned by the 
L'hinese ; wdiile to nse, unpnrified, the tilth-laden waters of the eanals 
and rivers was to invite an epidemie among the troops. The Jap- 
anese came fully provided with portable filters for use in the field. 
They were the only troops who possessed these necessary utensils, 
and the}- spared the men much. They also had in common with all 
the allies, except the Americans, provisions for supplying the troops 
with water while on the march or in action. When the Fifth Army 
Corps, I'nited States Arm}-, made the glorious, but in many ways 
disastrous, campaign against Santiago, June-August, 1898, we i)aid 
a price for ignorance which might have taught -is a wholesome les- 
son. One of the deficiencies, and one commented on by all the 
foreign military attaches who accompanied the army, was the utter 
lack of water supply except the small quantity the men could carry 
in their canteens. There was no reserve. When the water bottles 
ran dry the men would drop out of the line of march to replenish 
them. In so profusely watered a country as Cuba that was not diffi- 
cult, owing to the ]:)roximity of the Seco, the Aguadores, and the 
San Juan. Water could always be found near by, or secured while 
crossing a stream, but the custom is always retarding of progress 
and detrimental to discipline. But even where water is most plenti- 
ful, the practice throws the door wide open to the insidious disease 
germ. Here in China wliere water is fairly plentiful, but maryel- 
cnisl}- filthy, to provide no reserve water supply for troops on tlu' 
march, is to condemn all of them to needless sufl'ering and many of 
them to death. Two years of almost constant campaigning in the 
Philippines, coupled with the experiences in Cuba, have taught 
Americans nothing. Our troops turned up in China with their can- 
teens, and no more. I believe one or two filters, suitable for camp 
or barrack use, and too cumbersome for ready transport, have finally 
c.rrived. But they could not, had they been here in time, have been 
utilized on the march along the sluggish Pei-ho to Peking — the 
mother of thousands of ditches, all equally filled with a contaminated, 
yellow, slimy fluid, spreading out over the country like a web of 
an immense water-spider, licking up the filth of countless villages, 
and feeding, or draining, as the case may be, their cousins — the cess- 
pools. The men suffered terribly. Through the middle of the day 
the heat was intense. Millions, billions, trillions, of flies, buzzed and 
bit. For miles the road ran through millet fields. The grain stands 
from ten to twelve feet high, completely shutting off any breeze 



122 iiiSTuKV !iF nil': .\iiLfT.\Kv c A N 1 i;i: N . 

which might possibly be stirring. At every step the men and animals 
sank a foot into the dnst, which, ground into impalpable powder by 
the passage of thousands of vehicles, hung in a stifling cloud over 
the line of march, filling throats, eyes, lungs, and nostrils. The sun 
strifck a man between the shoulders and burned them like a red-hot 
plaster. Rivulets of perspiration trickled and dripped, converting 
faces into river charts of China, half mud and half water, and caus- 
ing eyelids to gum up and smart painfully. Canteens were emptied 
quickly during the six successive days march after the battle of 
Yang Tsun to Peking, and, notwithstanding positive orders to the 
contrar}-, were refilled out of wells on the putrid Pei-ho. 

Staggering along under their blanket-rolls and full marching 
equipment, what wonder that the troops ccjuld march but a short 
distance without resting, and that the total of a day's effort would 
be but about eight miles. At night, the mosquitos relieved the fiies 
as agents of unrest, swarming in dense clouds about the camjxs. 
Within a week after their arrival in Peking, over one-third of the 
American force was in the hospital This was about the average 
throughout the army, — Germans, Russians (including Cossacks), 
British (including Australians, English, Sikhs, Ragputs, Ghurkos, 
and Chinese), Americans, French (including Tonquin and Cochin 
China native regiments), Japanese. Austrians, and Italians, to say 
nothing of the "Boxers" and Imperial Chinese troops. 

If ever troops needed water reserve supply, for urgency as w^eil 
as sanitary reasons, it was on that march. The Japanese, Russians, 
Cermans, French, and I!ritish. all were ])rovided in some way. The 
Japanese drank only aerated water prepared regularly by the field 
filters, the water cart moving with the column and permitting the 
replenishing of the canteens at any lime without hindering the 
march or scattering the troops. For the Japanese officers and 
\\ounded. there w-as an ample supply of bottled mineral water. The 
]>ritish, Germans, and Russians, all had a reserve supply, either in 
carts or carried in skins on mules. Only the Americans were utterly 
destitute. An average of one-third of the force was always away 
from the column on a hunt for drinking water. At nightfall, when 
the camps were pitched, they would have, perhaps, to tramp long 
distances to obtain enough water for cooking purposes, while all 
the other allies had theirs ready to hand, simply, it was some one's 
business to attend to it and see that proper facilities were provided. 
Truly, 'tis a lop-sided commissary service which supplies an army 
with solid food — and woe to it if it fail — but makes no provision 
whatever for water. 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. I23 

While both arc indispensable, water is far more of an urgent 
neees^sity to troops than is other food. Frequently a few drops luean 
whether a soldier will drop or continue to march, and the first cry 
of a wounded man is for water. The advisability of supplying troops 
with water, even while in action, has long been recognized, and, not- 
withstanding the difficulty, has been successfully accomplished. 

In this war I have, for the first time, seen the "bhisti," whom 
Rudyard Kipling has immortalized as "Gunga Din" at work. He 
has a brother now in the Jap water coolie, whose duty is to supply 
water to troops in action, and succor the wounded on the field. Some 
day, perhaps, Uncle Sam may awake to appreciation of the necessity 
of some needed reforms in his army antl take a leaf out of the 
Mikado's book. Three days after the allied forces entered Peking, 
over eight hundred Americans or one-third of the total force under 
General Chafifee, were in the hospital. The percentage of Japanese 
troops unfit for duty at the same time was less than five. Yet they 
had done more work during the campaign than had the Americans. 

We seem, for some reason, always to be lacking adequate trans- 
]iort. Some of the powers are just as badly ofl^ as the United 
States in this matter of proper trans])ort. Init some are immeasur- 
ably superior. The Japanese and British-Indian contingents are 
the best. They have \iot only developed the light vehicle and small 
package system to a high state of excellence, but they have found 
another accelerator in the use of a large number of camp followers. 
In a British or Japanese regiment the number of camp followers 
almost equals the number of men bearing arms. 

These auxiliaries are really servants of the troops. They re- 
lieve the fighting men of all superfluous baggage on the march and 
do the camp labor when the colunni halts. The Japanese or British- 
Indian soldier carries nothing while marching except his rifle, am- 
nuiiiition, and A\-atcr bottle. Xnt (iuly cau he move faster and with 
less fatigue, but he is prepared to go into battle at an instant's 
notice. The American. German, or French, soldier, if suddenly 
attacked or brought into action, has to cast aside his heavy, bulky 
kit. These are frccjuently sttilen before the men return to secure 
them, if they ever do. Witness the denuding of our troops by the 
straggling bands of Cubans during the Santiago catupaign. Then, 
suppose the troops advance several miles in the course of an engage- 
ment, which frequently happens ; they must either abandon their per- 
sonal equipment (less rifle, amnmnition, canteen, cup, and in- 
trenching tool) entirel}-, or return fcr it. even if they can k^atc and 
find it intact, thus c<_)vering a distance three times when once shotild 



124 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAXTEeS*. 

have sufficed. Such mailers as the-^e often decide the success or 
faihire of a campaign. It is a hunnhating- fact that in nearly every 
march of any distance which tiie alhes ha\e made in L'hina, the 
Americans held the column back because they were unable lu keep 
up. A remark of General Dorward is recalled as he watched the 
little detachment of Americans toil painfull}- and slowly through the 
mud on the march to Tulin. The General who commanded the ex- 
peditionary force, had ridden hack with his stafif'to see what was 
l^eeping the Yankees back. "Fine fellows," he said as he gazed at 
them, "Fine fellows. Splendid physiques. Pity they load them 
(i(nvn so they can't march." 

It was a matter nf comment during the march to Peking that 
the Americans had more men drop out from heat prostration, and 
required to rest oftener, than the troops of any other nation. Fre- 
quently one-fourth the American force, with those who went down 
and those who stopped to attend them, would be out. The climate 
cannot account for this. It is very similar to that of the greater 
part of the United States. The troops were not "green." The\- 
were veterans, just from months of active service in the Philippines 
and Cuba. It was not inferiority of physique. The Americans 
are the strongest men out here. What then, was the reason? The 
men were required to do too nuich. In marching, they carried 
three times the weight imposed upon Japanese, British, or Rus- 
sian troops. Then, a dozen times during a day they were compelled 
to make detours to replenish their canteens. While, the march 
having ended, the Japs or British soldiers were taking things easy, 
while their camp followers pitched the tents, lighted the fire, cooked 
the food, and prepared the beds, the weary American doing all 
these things for himself. What wonder that he frequently, from 
sheer exhaustion, went supperless to 1)ed. and slept unsheltered 
rather than imdergo the labor of pitching his tent, to become the 
next day a ready victim to heat and dysentery? The camp auxi!- 
iarv certainly pays for his keep. In spite of his many handicaps, 
the American soldier has held his own. He has numerous weak- 
nesses, but fear of the enemy is not, fortunately for the securitv of 
the Republic, one of them. T heard foreign officers criticise freeh- 
his military manners, organization and equipment, — but never his 
fighting qualities, once his burden of antiquated methods is cast 
aside and he faces the foe on the fighting line. There he is as he 
always w^as, and let us hope, always will be. In all the criticism 
one hears there is an undercurrent of respect. I never see him in 
a fight but I feel, with alisnlute certainty, that the American 



lUSTOKV ol- Tin: :\IILITAKV CVXTiiliX. 



J?uluoue Stanrjoi/fy ^ £/?a/nel Co. Cant&tft, 
infiih Ihrker f^C/ter) no covtriCapcLcttifSoo 

iret^it, 22 ox. 



cover i ca/oAc/iySoox , 




Oca/e:/X 

/ftrotva sJrttv >vAtre Aea/raye ieyart 



126 lll.STOKV 01' Till:: MILITARN- CAXTECX. 

siil(lii.r will e\"er L;ivc' a ,!4()((1 accounl df liimselt if iioL asked Ui do 
more Ihaii slioiild be asked of an_\ man. (Jtlier elements l)eing- 
approximately equal, the stoutest heart and steadiest nerve will 
win in the most battles. In these qualities. Uncle Sam's boys are 
second to none. "They have done their share," is the verdict of 
people in China, who have been here through it all. The lessons 
of this uar have chiefly held to the prosaic lines of organization, 
supply, and equipment, and on matters such as these they have 
shed a lirilliant liq-ht for those who care to learn." 



How THE C.\RRETA, OR W'aTEK L'art, L*S|;d AT HEADQUARTERS, FiRST 

Division, Fifth Army Cori'S. isr Julv-igtii August. 
1898, AT Saxtiaoo DI-: Cuba, Was Obtained. 

During- the afternoon of Friday, ist July, 1898, after the com- 
mander of the First Division, Fifth .Vnuy Carps, — General J. Ford 
Kent, — accompanied by his aide, the late Major George S. Cart- 
\\right, and the Division Inspector, mounted, reached the crest of 
San Juan hill, where we had been preceded by General H. S. Haw- 
kins, and the 6th and i6th United States Infantry, there was a 
lull in the firing of the retreating Spaniards. This gave opportunity 
for a brief inspection of the grounds. A carreta, a dead mule, and 
some empty water casks, were noted on the western slope. A car- 
reta, is a cart with two wheels, fitted to l)e drawn by one animal. 
This particular one had been used by the Spaniards to haul water 
to Fort San Juan. A sketch of the carreta, or water cart accom- 
panies this report. The original of the sketch was made by Mr. 
Adolfo Carlos Munoz, — volunteer aide-de-camp on General Kent's 
staff, — wounded by a shrapnel bullet just above the right ear, p. 
m. of the following day, died iith November, 1899. 

After a portion of the 24th United States Infantry gained the 
summit on the date first mentioned, the Inspector got a colored 
sergeant, name unknown, and two privates same regiment, to assist 
in making a break down the slope for the carreta and the barrels. 
We succeeded in hauling the outfit up over the crest, and down to 
where the Division Commander's hammock was. There it re- 
mained in charge of Second Lieutenant Fred L. Munson, com- 
manding the division headquarters detachment guard, until August 
10th, — date of departure frcMu Santiago de Cuba, for Montauk, L. 
T. The carreta saved man\- a weary triji to the San Juan river for 
a canteen full of water. 



jiis'i'oin- ()i- iiii-. Mii.riAin- ( .wii-:i-..v. 12/ 

OBSERVATIOXS UX THE IMiKlX Kl'.IJiCJ^" r:X I M'.hL lioX. 
By Captain William Crorjicr, Ordnance Pcpaiiuicnl , ('. S. J. 

The Chief Ordnance Officer, General Chaffee's Staff', states as 
follows: From the time of the arrival of the first. American troops 
at Tien Tsin, — 9th Infantry. — plenty was the order of the day. 
Ginger ale and bottled water were in abundance. The fare was less 
generous on the march to Pekin. 

XTo provision was made for supplying the United States troops 
with water on the march, other than the canteen which each man 
carried. Other troops were better oft' in this respect. The British 
Indians carried water in skins on pack mules, and some had barrels 
upon carts. But there are wells in all the Chinese villages, and 
these, along the line of march, were not more than a mile and a 
half apart; and, with the column properly halted, it is as easy to 
fill canteens from a stationary well as from a stationary cart or mule. 
The water in the wells was always cool, and, though seldom per- 
fectly clear, it was never revoltingly turgid, as was that of the rivers 
anrl canals ; it was drank freely by all the troops of the expedition. 
No other troops made such a time about water as the Americans, 
wiio had orders to drink none without boiling it, and had special 
utensils provided for the purpose. These orders could not l)e en- 
forced, however, as thirsty soldiers will not wait even when arrived 
in camp, for water to boil and cool. Portable filters were provided 
and were used in the hospital service, one also I observed in the 
light battery, and one was in the headquarters mess. The charac- 
teristic ailment of North China, however, seems to come independ- 
ently of the water ; it attacks nearly all Europeans and Americans 
during their first summer, not sparing even those wdio drink nothing 
but imported waters. With careful inquiry, I was unable to find a 
medical man who could assign a satisfactory reason, other than it 
was "in the air." 

I have neither heard nor read any criticisms of the operations of 
the Subsistence Department, other than as these were aft'ected by 
lack of transportation, wdiich suggests an inquiry as to the char- 
acter and quantity of the latter. The Americans had thirteen four- 
mule army wagons and one pack train of forty freight mules, be- 
sides two or three ambulances and a Dougherty wagon. This sup- 
ply was intended to take care of two regiments of infantry, a bat- 
talion of marines, a light battery, and the headquarters, i'he four- 
mule wagon is considered to be distinctly superior to the means 
of transportation of supplies employed by the British. Japancsi". 
Russians, or French. ■■'• * '■■ The American train had one man 



128 lilSTOKV UF Till-: .MII.ri.\U\ C.\\Ti:iii\. 

1(1 luur mules, all the liiadcd animals l)cint;' driven in a bunch with 
a hell-mare leading. JJere.also was economy of numbers, although 
perhaps the Japanese provision of a man lo each animal was a 
necessity, as their ponies are all stallions, and their train at a halt 
was a bedlam of tlying heels and wild snorts, it was more dan- 
gerous to pass than a Chinese outi)ost. A large proportion of the 
Japanese transportation consisted of pack animals; the British 
Indians had nothing else; the inferiority in economy, when con- 
trasted with the American system, is striking, when it is noted that 
it requires the same number of mules to carry 1,000 pounds on 
packs as will haul 3,000 pounds in our arm^-wagon. The Ameri- 
can pack train carried ammunition only, for which purpose it could 
not have been replaced, as it afforded the only means of maintaining 
a first reserve supply in constant readiness for immediate distribu- 
tion to the firing line. The pack saddles of the different nation- 
alities were, in their eft'ect on the animals, of about equal merit. 
Occasional sore backs were noticed in all the trains, but the Ameri- 
can required the most skillful packer. 

-A- ■■■;-. * * :|: * * 

Within three days after the arrixal at I'ekin, bottled waters and 
fancy groceries began to make tlieir appearance in the American 
commissary and within a week there was abundance of these for all. 

If a sufiicient number of four-mule wagons, the most rapid and 
economical transportation yet devised for countries in which they 
c;m go at all. — and with a very little help they can do marvels in 
the way of trail covering, — be supplied to carry all the men's bag- 
gage, except their arms and canteens, and, in addition, a sufficient 
number of armed men to act as train guards, riding either in the 
seats with the drivers or on others provided, these men would be 
sufficiently fresh to do the loading and ether extra work, and the 
whole organization would be made more economical and serviceable 
than one provided with coolie corps. 



FURTHER OPEN AIR TESTS MADE OF CANTEENS 
Intended for Use in Military Service, Made at Headquarters 
Department of Dakota, St. Paul, Minnesota. 
(For description of various canteens tested see pp. 57-61 this 
report; also further description given belovv'.) 

Spccificalions, etc., of Canteen "AA". — Canteen "AA" is the 
regulation service pattern canteen, manufactured at Rock Island 
Arsenal, 1900, and issued to me direct from there. It has double 
cover — Petersham felt inner, and dved duck, or canvas, outer cover. 



iii>T()RV OF Till-: MiLirARN' c \.\ri:i:.\-. 129 

Capacii}' 44 fluid dunccs, 45 aiul 2-4 uzs. avoirdupois. Weight, 
empty, covers on and dry, avoirdupois, 12 and :] ounces. Weight, 
filled, covers on and dry, avoirdupois, 58 and ] ounces. Weight, 
filled, covers on, after ten minutes' immersion, avoirdupois, 6^ and 
2-4 ounces. Weight of the tin canteen flask, empty, no covers on, 
avoirdupois, 9 and 2-4 ounces. 

This canteen was sent for and used Ijy me in order to have a 
standard of comparison, and because of variations noted in other 
canteens issued to the First Cavalry, Eighth Infantry, and other 
organizations from which I received them, termed "U. S. Army 
Regulation Service Canteen, Ordnance Pattern," or "U. S. Army 
Regulation Service Tin Flask, Ordnance Pattern", etc. In all tests 
made after Test No. 68, all three of these service canteens, or flasks, 
were used. Tests were conducted as described on pp. 43-4, this 
monograph, and by the same person, using the same thermometers. 

Specifications of Canteen "BB". — Canteen "BB" is a combina- 
tion canteen and filter. Canteen is of the regulation tin flask type, 
double cover — regulation felt or Petersham inner, and dyed duck 
or canvas outer. Made at Rock Island Arsenal, October, 1898, with 
a specially wide mouth to accommodate the Mrs. Caroline Parker 
Filter. Capacity, filter in, 40 fluid ounces, 42 ounces avoirdupois; 
filter out, fluid 45 ounces, avoirdupois, 46 ounces. Weight, filled, 
covers on and dry, filter in, 59 ounces avoirdupois. Ditto, after 
ten minutes' immersion, 64 ounces avoirdupois. Weight of the tin 
flask, empty, no cover, filter out, 9 and ^ ounces avoirdupois. 
Weight of filter, including soft rubber top, 3 and j ounces avoirdu- 
pois*. Weight of duck, or canvas, cover, dry. i and 2-4 ounces. 
Weight of same after ten minutes' immersion, 3 and | ounces 
avoirudpois. Weight of water absorbed by the canvas cover, i and 
2-4 ounces. Weight of the Petersham felt, or inner cover, dry, 
I and 2-4 ounces. Weight of same after ten minutes' immersion. 
7 and 2-4 ounces avoirdupois. Weight of water absorbed by the 
inner cover, 6 ounces avoirdupois. Weight of the canteen "BB", 
empty, covers on and dry, filter out, 12 and f ounces avoirdupois. 
Weight of the canteen, empty, covers on and dry, filter in, 16 ounces 
avoirdupois. 

Specifications of Canteen "CC". — The canteen purchased by the 
United States for trial, in December, 1898, or October, 1898, from 
the Dubuque Stamping and Enamel Company, has been described, 
and the objections to enameled metal as a material for canteen 
flasks dwelt upon, in previous pages of this monograph. In the 
test tables it is termed canteen "C". 



i3o 



HISTORY OF Tin-: .MILITARY CAXTtEN. 



B 



C/.S. ^rmy Tfefu/aiiorj Scri/ice Canteen, 
Or^nariCQ. ^tterrt^ dx^uble Ccuer^ /elianai 
Cancan, iut ftai/ir?y , also. e. i^oolei^ stock I'nj 
ley <irau,fT ever t'i. 

Capacity ■f^S or.. tret,ght. ZZox. 




^trutv aUotra trAere /ea4:afe infan 



^3ca/e: ^ 



iiisTOK\- oi' riir: military ca.xteex. 131 

Canteen "CC" is an enameled melal canteen llask l)Onght Ijy the 
U. S. from the Dnbuqne Stamping & Enamel Company. Its con- 
struction, also its material, is in general identical with that of can- 
teen "C", — Differing in tliese details : It is covered and its capacity 
is less. Its side pieces have wire triangles. 

Canteen "CC" has a double cover of the same materials, appar- 
ently as are used in Regulation canteen "A" or "AA." It lacks the 
filter with which canteen "C" is provided, and the mouthpiece, or 
neck, is different. (See blue print of "C,"" and of "CC", also sketch 
of "C", accompanying this report.) The construction of the wire 
side triangles of "CC" is similar in material and in shape to the 
present regulation canteen. The side loops are not, — they being 
made of enameled metal ware. 

Flask "CC" is encircled by a band, 42 in. by i in., of same ma- 
terial as the Petersham "felt. It is provided with 2-4 of an ounce 
more of this absorbent material than the regulation canteen has. 
The side band plain iron wire triangles of this canteen are engaged 
in ears of enameled metal, each of which is fastened to the side 
band by means of two rivets. The mouthpiece, or nozzle, is also a 
separate piece of enameled metal, the overlapping edges of which 
are held together by means of two rivets. Apart from the triangles, 
rivets, neck-chain, neck-band, chain, cork and its attachments, six 
pieces of enameled metal are employed in the construction of the 
canteen flask. 

Capacity, in fluid ounces, 43. Avoirdupois ounces, 44 and f. 

Weight, empty, covers on and dry, avoirdupois, 20 ounces. 

Weight, filled, covers on, after ten minutes' immersion, 74 
ounces. 

Weight, filled, covers on and dry, avoirdupois, 64 and 4 ounces. 

Weight of the emptv enameled flask, no covers on, avoirdupois. 
16 and ^ ounces. 

Weight of the duck or canvas cover, dry, avoirdupois, i and :} 
ounces. 

Weight of the duck or canvas cover after ten (10) minutes' im- 
mersion, avoirdupois, 2 and f ounces. 

Weight of the water absorbed by the canvas cover, avoirdupois, 
I ounce. 

Weight of the Petersham felt, or inner cover, including the 
band, dry, avoirdupois, 2 ounces. 

Weight of the Petersham felt or inner cover, including band, 
after ten minutes' immersion, avoirdupois. 10 and 2-4 ounces. 

Weight of the water absorbed by the Petersham felt, or inner 
cover, including the band, avoirdupois. 8 and '} ounces. 



132 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. (I'.). 



8.00 am 

9.00 " 

10.00 " 

1 1. 00 " 

1 2.00 m. 

1 . 00 pill 

2.00 " 

3.00 " 

4.00 " 

-.00 " 



Temperature of Water in Caiiteen.s. 



was full- Covers Dry. All of the canteens were suspei 
trestle, so that free cn-culation obtained. 



\ A 15 H Ji, C C E 1 G 



170 170 
120 106 

94 74 
80 66 

72 62| 
66. 62! 
64' 5^ 
62 58 
60 
58 



170 170 
130 144 
104 122 
90T0S 
80,' 9\ 
72 1 84 
66! 78 
66 72 
62 70 
62 66 
i 



170117O1I70 
I26ji3>l gS: 



00 


1 12 


72 


86 


96 64 


76 


84 


62 


70 


76 


62 


66 


72 


S« 


62 


68 


S8 


60 


64 


S« 


60 


62 


5« 



70 170 

32 152 
IOI32 

94 118 
86 106 



170170 
150144 
126 126 
114 116 
104 102 
94 92 
881 88 
82 80 



' i ' 
- i — 
170 170 
146 150 
126 130 
112 114 
102 



ded from a 



[70 170 

96! 92 

68*66 
62 60 

74 60 58 
70 60; sS 
5^\ 56 
58 5^ 
58 58 
58 58 



f-eaky. — Letikage occurred in Canteen "X" at the point where the stirrup shaped loops were 
camped to the sides of '.he flask by means of four rivets. The Parker filter in Canteen "1!H" 
was found to be broken, having separated from the soft rubber top. Breakage thought to be 
occasioned by leaving the flusk, filter in, against steam radiator. 



TEST No. 70. 



Hour. DutMdt 

Temp. 

7-45 "■"' ■*'46 

8-4S " 48 

9-45 " 50 

"0-45 " 54 

'1-45 " ' 54 

12.45 |( 111 58 

1-45 " 52 

2-45 " 54 

3-45 " 54 

4-45 " 54 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Conditions same as in preceding Test. All Covers Vr\ 



146' 46! 46 

48 48, 48 

50 50! 50 

i54l 52| 52 

^ 54 

56 

54 

54 

54' 54 54 



i54: 54 
l^6 



54 

'58 54 
56; 54 

54i 54 



Bli C Cl E G I H I L I Q I R I S I T 



4614646 

48I4S4S 
48! 50 48 
50:5048 

52^52 50 

54 56 50 

5615652 
54*54 54 

54154541 
5454:521 



4646 
4846 
48 48 
5050 

50 52 
5054 
5054 

5254 
5254 

5054 



4646 
5050 

52,52 

54i5.2 
56154 
58156 
5856 

5856, 
5656! 
5656 



46 46 46 
484S48 
50 50 48 
525048 
52 52 50 
54-54 52 
56 54 52 
54 54 52 
54 54,52 
545452 



u 


V 


46 


46 


48 


52 


48 


54 


50 


5^' 


50 


S8 


S2 


60 


54 


60 


54 


^8 


52 


56 


52 


54 



46 46 

48 46 

50*48 
50 48 
50 50 

54 52 
54 52 
54 54 
54 54 
54 52 



'Leaky.— Leakage in Canteen "X" as in preceding test. Temperature of "V," the Eveking, 
Westphalia, Canteen, rose above that of the air, and remained above that of its environments fur a 
period of eight (8) hours. Aluminum Canteen "L," the Karlsruhe, Kaden, one: also, the Lanz tin 
flusk. Canteen "(J" rose above the atmosiihcric tcmpcr.iture. 

Note should be made that none of the canteen co\ers were wet, m m. listened. 



HISTORY OK THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 71. 



133 



Open air test— in snn for six (6) hours, followed by three (j| hours in the shade. 
Each canteen was full. All covers dry. All of the canteens were suspended from a 
trestle, so that free circulation prevailed. Test made on the roof of the L, Army 
Building, Headquarters Department of Dakota, St. Paul, Minn. 



1 Out- 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 






Tern. 


A 


A-I A A 


B 1 BU 


c_c 


E 


G 


u 


I 


'^ 




i<. 


s 


T 


If 


V 


vv 


X 


a.m.l 

7.50 +58 


48 


48 


48 


48' 48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


*48 


N.50, 60 


,S8 


,0 


.SO 


50 


S2 


S6 


S4 


48 


48 


SO 


66 


S4 


48 


SO 


S4 


SO 


S4 


S4 


S6 


9.50 70 


60 


60 


S4 


';4 


S4 


S8 


S8 


SO 


SO 


S2 


68 


S8 


SO 


S2 


S4 


S2 


S8 


S8 


S8 


10.50 63 


64 


64 


S8 


S6 


S8 


62 


64 


S2 


S2 


S6 


70 


62 


S6 


S4 


S8 


S6 


64 


62 


60 


11.50 70 
p.m. 1 


66 


66 


62 


63 


62 


64 


68 


56 


54 


58 


72 


64 


58 


56 


60 


58 


68 


64 


60 


12. 50 72 


70 


68 


64 


64 


6+ 


66 


70 


S8 


S6 


60 


74 


66 


62 


60 


60 


60 


70 


66 


64 


1.50 60 


70 


66 


66 


66 


66 65 


70 


60 


S8 


62 


74 


66 


64 


62 


62 


62 


70 


66 


64 


2.50 60 


66 


64 


64 


64 


64 


64 


64 


6o 


S8 


62 


70 


66 


62 


62 


62 


62 


66 


62 


62 


;!.50 60 


64 


62 


62 


64 


62 


64 


62 


60 


S8 


60 


68 


66 


62 


60 


60 


60 


64 


62 


62 


4.50 60 


62 


60 


62 


62 


62 


62 


60 


60 


58 


60 


66 


64 


62 


60 


60 


60 


62 


62' 6r 



Leaky. 



Regulation C aniecn — held above that of tl, 



CoMME.NT. — Temperature of ' 
three hours. 

Temperature of "L"— Karlsruhe, Baden, aluminum, C.ernian sii 
and kept above that of the air during the closing eight hours of the tt 

Se\eral other canteens rose to a temperature above that of the at 
ing the three closinghours that the trestle was in tlie shade. 

Note should be made of the fact that none of the covers were v 
this (est. 



gic felt-covt 



: air dv.ring the las 
:d canteen — rangec 
kept above it, dur- 
.•d, before or during 





Out- 












r 


smperatu 


re of Wa 


ter in Canteens. 














All the canteens were full, covers dry, suspended from a trestle undjr glass (storm 


Hour. 


side 


window— eight panes of glass, each 20x17 inches) placed nearly horizontally above the 




I'emp. 


canteens in such a manner as to admit free circulation ot the air. I restle stood on roof 
of L of Army ISuilding. St. Paul. Minn. 




A 


A- I 




A A 




B 


B B 


c c 


E 


G 


H 


I 


E 


<i 1 Iv 


s 


_Lf_"_ 


V 


w 


-X 


a.m. 
O-IS 


+60 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


S6 


10. IS 


60 


ss 


6j 


S8 


S8 


60 


60 


60 




S8 


S8 


60 


S8 


S8 


S8 


S8 


S8 


60 


S8 


*6o 


11.15 


70 


62 


62 


60 


bo 


60 


60 


62 


60 


58 


58 


6a 


60 


60 


60 


58 


60 


62 


62 


62 


p. m. 
12.IS 


70 


64 


64 


62 


62 


64 


64 


66 


60 


60 


60 


64 


62 


62 


62 


62 


60 


66 


62 


64 


IIS 


64 


64 


66 


64 


64 


64 


66 


68 


62 


62 


62 


66 


64 


64 


64 


62 


62 


68 


64 


66 


2.15 


66 


66 


66 


66 


64 


66 


66 


68 


62 


62 


62 


6. 


66 


64 


64 


64 


64 


70 


64 


66 



•^ Leaky. 



134 



UlSTUKV OF Till-. MILITAKV CAXTEEN. 
TEST No. 73. 



Oiit- 












T 


cmperatiire of Water ii 


Canteens. 




t. 




Hour Mdc 
Temp. 


- Conditions: Under glass, same as in preceding tes 








A 


A-l 


A A| Ji K 1! C C Ji 


G H 


I 


L|Q 


R 


s 




u 


V 


w .\ 


a. m . 




































8. IS 


+SO 


S6 




S6 


S6 




56 s6 


S6 


.S6 


S6 


56 


5b 


5b 


S6 


56 






915 


S4 


t 




S6 


S« 




.S6 


56 


5^ 


rb 


58 


58 


5b 


58 


58 


58 






10.15 


SO 




S'l 


.S8 




S5 


Sb 


S8 


Sb 


58 


58 


58 


58 


58 


58 






III5 


5« 


56 




56 


5« 




56 


5b 


58 


5b 


58 


58 


58 


58 


5b 


58 






12.15 


60 


S6 




S8 


SH 




S8 


.S8 


S8: 


S6 


58 


58 


58 


58 


58 


58 






115 


60 


S8 




S8 


S8 




58 


bo 


58 


58 


bo 


S8 


58 


58 


58 


58 






2.15 


60 


58 




60 


60 




60 


bo 


58 


S8 


bo 


58 


58 


58 


58 


58 






3- 15 


60 


S« 




60 


60 




60 


bo 


S8 


S8 


bo 


bo 


S8 


58 


58 


58 






4-15 


60 


^8 




60 


60 




60 


S8 


58 


58 


bo 


bo 


60 


60 


58 


58 






5- '5 


SH 


.^8 




5« 


S8 




5« 


58 


58 


58 


bo 


58 


bo 


bo 


58 


.58 




1 



TEST No. 7 1. 





Out- 
side 













Temperature of Water in Ca 


iteei 


s. 

Ti trestle, free circulation 


Hour, 


pen-air test, canteens all full, covers dry, suspended fro 
of air. 




Temp. 










A 


A- 1 


A A 


B 


B B 


C C 


E 


G 


H 


» 


L 


Q 


R 


S 


T 


V 


A- 


W 


.K 


a. Ill 










































7.40 


+52 


SO 




50 


50 




50 


50 








50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 








J. 40 


52 


48 




48 


48 




48 


52 








52 


4b 


52 


48 


54 


54 








(J. 40 


48 


48 




48 


48 




48 


50 








52 


4b 


52 


50 


54 


54 








10.40 


52 


48 




48 


48 




48 


52 








52 


48 


52 


50 


54 


54 








11.40 


54 


50 




50 


50 




50 


52 








52 


50 


52 


50 


'' 


54 








12.40 


56 


52 




52 


52 




52 


H 






54 


50 


52 


52 54 


54 








1.40 


5b 


54 




54 


52 




54 


5b 






54 


52 


52 


52 


54 


54, 






2.40 


56 


54 




54 


54 




54 


5b 






54 


52 


54 


54 


54 


541 






v40 


54 


54 




54 


54 




54 


54 






54 


52 


54 


54 


54 


54| 






4.40 


54 


54 




54 


54 


54 


54 1 54I 52' 54 


54 i 54 


541 







TEST No. 





: 

Outside 
Temperature - 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour. 


All canteens full, covers dry, suspended from tres- 
tle, under glass— same as in Test No. 72. 




A 

56 
60 
b2 
62 
64 
64 


A A 

i 

62 
64 
64 
64 


B 

I 

62 
b2 
64 
64 


C C 

60 
62 

64 


E 

56 
62 
62 
64 
66 
64 


L 

7e 
58 
58 
60 
62 


62 
64 
64 


R 

56 
60 
60 
64 
64 
64 


S 

56 
60 
62 
62 
64 
64 


56 
60 
60 
62 

64 


V 


Q ^0 a 111 


+62 


Sb 




bS 


i 




66 




64 


60 




64 


62 


230 ", 


62 


62 


64 


62 



lilSTOKY OF THli MILITARY CANTEEiN'. 



135 



BB 




AirFi/>9 



cCouh^ Coders . y^ade ot ffo^k Ja^artci y^rnrral , Oct. /39d tvt'i^ a ^/bfctoUy ^vraU m^utJi i:c 
accomr^dlate the /tfr». Caro/i^e ^rker t^t/io-, Ca/aaciiy. fc/ivr ^^S'P'/J,'^^^''" *"" 

Ufaiyht. f/'/ier irt , />//cc^. Cot/en on atteL tfry ^uereiupoi'a S9 ffurrcts 
Iteifii. fr/ier t». ff^ed.co^/ers orr^afier &efr /nr'ttu6es ihntftrsioirjAvorctupoi's- . 64- ex.. 
IVtiyJii of the trrt f/ask . no cot/crs. errr/ii^y . fi/tcr ot<i. 9 i^ or.. 



136 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 76. 



Outside 
inperaturc. 



' Temperature of Water in Canteens. 

Canteens "A," "AA," "li" and "CC" immersed 
for sixteen (i6) hours before commencing test- 
inside covers of canteens "L," "Q," "R~," "S" 
and "T," also "U," saturated — outside covers 
dry \vhen test commenced. A fine rain prevailed 
during the entire period, eight (8) hours, covered 
by the test. 



S.oo 


^. ni . 






Q.OO 


" . 






lO.OO 








II.OO 


" . 






12. OO 


in . 






I.OO 


1. m . 






2.00 


" . 






3.00 








4.00 













A 


AA 


B 


c c 

46 


E 
46 


I. 
46 


Q 
46 


K 
46 


46 


T 


u 




+48 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 




4S 


4b 


46 


46 


4b 


46 


48 


SO 


SO 


SO 


48 


S2 




4.S 


4b 


46 


46 


4b 


46 


48 


48 


48 


48 


4b 


SO 




48 


46 


46 


4b 


46 


46 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 




4'~i 


46 


4b 


48 


48 


46 


48 


48 
48 


48 


48 


46 


48 




io 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 




., 40 


44 


44 


46 


44 


44 


46 


4b 


4b 


46 


4b 


46 




3« 


42 


42 


42 


42 


40 


42 


42 


42 


42 


42 


42 




3^ 


38 


40 


40 


40 


38 


40 


40; 40 40 


40 40 



TEST No. 



Temperature of \Va 












AUc 


over 


wet 








A 


A A 


B 


c c 


E 


L 


Q 


R 


s 


T 


44 


44 


44 


44 


44 


44 


44 


44 


44 


44 


34 


34 


3f 


36 


3b 


3b 


3« 


3^ 


3:^ 


3b 


32 


32 


32 


32 


34 


32 


34 


34 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


3b 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


34 


30 


^i 


34 


32 


32 


32 


34 


32 


32 


32 


32 


3« 


34 


34 


32 


32 


34 


32 


32 


32 


32 


3^ 


32 


34 


32 


32 


34 


32 


32 


32 


32 


3« 


34 


34 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 


3H 


32 


32 


32 


32 


32 



IIISTUKV OF Tllli .MILITARY CAXTEEN. 



13; 



The followittg data atid specificatiotis regarditig Cauteetis "AA,' 
"BB," "CC," and the Lanz Canteens "Q" and "U" are given. 



Weight of the canteen, empty, covers 
on and dry 

Weight of the canteen, filled, covers 
on and dry 

Weight of canteen, filled, covers on 
after ten (10) minutes immersion. . ., 

Weight of the canteen flask, empty, no 
covers on 



Weight of water in canteen flask 

Wt. of the duck, or canvas cover, dry. 

Wt. of the duck, or canvas cover, after 
ten (10) minutes immersion 

Weight of the water absorbed by the 
canvas cover 

Weight of the Petersham, fell, or inner 
cover, dry 

Wt. of the Petersham, felt or inner cov- 
er, after ten(io)miinites Immersion.. 

Wt. of the water absorbed by the Peter- 
sham, felt, or inner cover 

Weight of the canteen, covers on and 
dry, filter in, empty 

Weight of the canteen, filled, covers on 
and dry, filter in 

Weight of the canteen, empty, filter 
out, covers on and dry 

Wt. of thecanteen, filled, filter in, cov- 
ers on, after ten (10) minutes immer- 



Wi 



(if water in canteen, filter 



ml. 



Wi. of water in canteen, f 

Weight of the tin flask, empty, no 
cover, filter out 

Wt. of filter, includingsoft rubber top. . 

Wt. of the enameled flask, empty, no 
covers on 

Wt. of duck, or canvas cover, and ielt 
combined, dry 

Wt. of duck, or canvas cover, and felt 
combined, after ten (10) minutes im- 
mersion 

Wt. of water absorbed by felt and can- 
vas cover combined 



'AA." 



"BB." 



ozs. ozs. 



12J 

632 av 

j 452 av 
(44 fd 



6 
16 

59 av 
123 



64 av 

\ 42 av 

/ 40 fd 

i 46 av 

•( 45 fd 

9l 

3i 



'CC. 



20 


19 


64a av 


67^ av 


74 av 


774 av 


44I av 
43 fd 


III 

J49 av 

U5i fd 

34 



2 

loi 
U 



Lanz 
"Q." 



i5i 
iih 



i6i 



7i 
19 



A discrepancy e.vists in comparing the gross weight of a canteen, covers on, after 
immersion, as a whole, in water for ten (10) minutes, as opposed to the result obtained 
by separately immersing and then weighing separately, the components of the canteen. 
This difference is due to the fact that the felt and canvas covers take up more water 
when off the flask of the canteen than they do when on the flask. 

Illitstration.—'Y\\Q. gross weight of Canteen "AA," covers on, after ten (10) min- 
utes immersion, canteen filled, was 63 '4 ounces, while the aggregate weight of same, 
l^eparately weighed, after snturntion oY the covers, was 6534.' ounces, avoirdupois, 



13^5 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAXTEEX. 

RECOMMENDATIONS. ETC. 

It is reconjincnded that the furtlier manufacture, purchase, or 
issue, of the present service canteen cease, and that it be replaced by 
a canteen of different material, construction and shape. 

That all canteens of the present regulation patterns, now in 
Arsenals or Depots of the U. S., be sold as unsuitable for the public 
service, after proper inspection and survey. This under the lavi7 of 
23d March, 1825, upon which Section 1,241, Revised Statutes, is 
based. 

That the Lanz method of covering be adopted for the tin can- 
teen flasks now in process of fabrication at the Rock Island Arsenal. 
By the time that the 98,284 tin flasks now there have corroded, — a 
better material may be decided on. Aluminum is cheapening con- 
stantly. The regulation canteen is not durable. It is ])oor economv 
to continue it in service. The opinion and estimate of the man who 
carries and uses the canteen is preferable to the opinion or estimate 
of the man who made it. Fidelity to the welfare of the former, 
rather than the interests of the latter, prompts the recommenda- 
tion. The Bidon of the French Army is said to have been deter- 
mined by the men-in-ranks. Dr. Nicholas Senn, of 532 Dearborn 
Avenue, Chicago, 111., is quoted as stating that the regulation can- 
teen invites epidemics liy sheltering the insidious disease germ. 
Further, that practical tests have demonstrated that there arc other 
canteens having merits above that of the regulation canteen. Chang- 
ing the material of the flask from sheet tin to enameled ware is the 
application of a false, even a dangerous, remedv. When a soldier 
raises a canteen to his mouth for the purpose of taking a drink, his 
lips embrace the rim of the neck of the flask so that the turned 
edges of the nozzle will come inside of his mouth. The lips of the 
drinker should not touch the fabric from which the cover of the 
canteen is made. 

If the present pattern of canteen be retained, it is recommended 
that an openable outer cover of textile faliric l)e adopted instead of 
an outer cover fastened round the edges; further, that the inner 
cover now in use be replaced by a cover of all-wool felt of at least 
three times the weight, in ounces, of the present inner covering. 

When an openable cover is laced up over the moistened felt, 
evaporation is retarded when the temperature of the atmosphere 
is consideral)ly above temperate — and the fluid contents of the 
canteens thus kept at a palatable temperature for the soldier's use. 
The physical principle involved is manifest. 

Ti is also ex'ident tliat wlien tlie icniiieraUiiH' of the atmosphere 



HISTORY 01- Till: MILITAKV CAXTEEX. 139 

is considerably below temperate, a canteen flask covered as recom- 
mended,— inner felt not being moistened,— will keep its contents 
at a palatable temperature for the soldier's use longer than if the 
l)resent pattern and material of canteen coverings are retained in the 
service. 

The modern canteen is not of circular, but of oval, gourd, oblong 
bottle, or flask, shape. It is recommended that one of these shapes 
be adopted for the U. S. Army conteen flask; also that the side of 
the flask that is next the body be flattened or slightly concaved, 
the other side being convex. I am of the opinion that the inner 
cover.— that is. the one superimposed upon the flask,— should be 
of absorbent material. Further, that the lacing method for the 
outer cover, extending partly around ihc edges of the flask, is 
durable as well as simple. 

Destructive criticism is of no value in bringing about the solu- 
tion of a prol)lem. Certain existing facts in regard to the present 
service canteen have been stated. The settlement, remedy, and 
alternative, is commonplace and feasible. It consists in retiring the 
present regulation canteen issued to the Army, and adopting, in 
lieu, the Lanz Canteen. 

Perhaps some one else will devise a l)etter one ; no one has, as 
yet. done so, or submitted a canteen which fulfills so many of the 
required qualifications of rational sense and ])rinci])!e desired in a 
canteen, as the Lanz Canteen Company, of Chicago, 111. The U. S. 
Army should have the best that is ofl:'ered. The Department having 
in charge the selection and issue of canteens should be in sympa- 
thetic touch with outside developments. 

An objection advanced against the use of the Lanz Canteen is 
that the inner cover of all-w^ool felt will attract moths, and Govern- 
ment property thus be eaten uj). Equally purile is the objection that 
as the inner cover of the Lanz Canteen is thicker in substance than 
the present regulation inner covers, it will soak up more water and 
tbu^^ increase the weight that the soldier has to carry ; — of course, 
it will. The inner cover has functions ; one function is to absorl) 
several ounces of water in warm weather, when iiumersed. L^nused 
idle canteen jackets of wool-felt may be eaten by moths if not pro- 
tected just as storekeepers protect furs and woolens. Omelets 
cannot be made unless eggs be broken. Practical soldiers in the 
field would not object to a few ounces increased weight caused ])y 
the absorbent capacity of the felt covering, in view of the gain in 
palatablcness (if the fluid within caused b\- the soaked cover and 



140 



HISTORY OF Till-; MILITARY CANTEEN. 



iy Cftt Latfx. mtihod, doi^lk couet, fe/t and. canuas 




'Arrets i/'Civ /r'nrr /eokoiye Ic 



Sco/e ■ /s 



O 



Fiask, circu/ar, no cocer. /Vc adder 
said io be i^sed,. CapasCty. /6 07.., 
Wi. 3/4 OZ. 



Tiai/mcmL^ &otilol A/unr/rrum Canteen 
O/ff/e ^l^ cover. Capacity. JiSoi. fre eox. 








lllSTdKV OF TIIF MILITARY CAXtEEX, I4I 

succeeding retarded evaporation secured h}- the outer canvas cover, 
in an arid region or on a sweltering day- 
Believing that the canteen which most eftectually performs its 
functions, viz. : to carry and preserve the temperature of the fluid it 
contains, either in hot or cold weather, to be the best for the mil- 
itary service, I recommend the Lanz Canteen as best fulfilling these 
requisites. 

The new Lanz Canteen is of aluminum, one piece, oblong shape, 
one face concave, opposite side convex, covered with 4-8 inch all- 
wool felt; openable (3 piece) outer cover; has strap with rings in 
end to go round the flask and cover, through loops in latter. 

The new Lanz Canteen is an ounce or so heavier, dry, and ab- 
sorbs much more water than the government canteen. The remov- 
able canvas cover permits rapid saturation of the felt covering, when 
inmiersed, saturation being effected in a very few minutes. A Gov- 
ernment canteen, which had been used, absorbed only one ounce of 
water in ten minutes, while the loose felt covering showed a capacity 
to absorb five ounces. Twelve hours' immersion of this canteen 
caused it to absorb only four ounces. The fixed canvas covering 
l)revents access of water to the felt. The felt not 1)cing saturated 
loses its small amount of moisture comparatively soon and with the 
passing of evaporation the contents of the canteen soon l)ccome 
warm. 

The Lanz Canteen absorbs its water quickly and its canvas cover 
])lace(l dry over the wet felt retards evaporation and keeps the con- 
tents cool for a much longer period than the regulation canteen. 
Further, trials have proven that the Lanz Canteen will keep fluid 
at a palatable temperature in an Arctic region longer than the L^. S. 
canteen will. The flask of the Lanz Canteen is lighter than the 
U. S. canteen and holds more water ; further, the openable cover of 
the Lanz Canteen is as enduring as the U. S. cover, and possesses 
advantages that the U. S. cover does not possess. 

The shape of the Lanz Canteen is considered an advantage by 
(jfficers and men who have had field experience and who have 
tried it. 

Attention is invited to drawings of six aluminum flasks, divested 
of their coverings, kept for sale by Mr. Lanz. Their capacities vary 
from 9-100 to 1.7 liter; none are circular in shape; all are oval; all 
are concave on one side, the opposite side being convex ; some are 
(lull finish — lusterless — some are polished ; some have flat bottoms, — • 
these last can stand up ; some have drinking cups ; some of the tops 
are screw tops. 



142 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAXTEEN. 

ATy Statements, opinions and recommendations rci;arding can- 
teens have been based upon original test or examination, and not 
upon communicated information. 

As regards the Lanz method of insulating- canteens, my pre- 
possessions were favorable, because the system seemed a common- 
sense one and the methods rational. Neither theory or bias, how- 
ever, influenced my investigations nor my recommendations. 

I did not accept the claims, tests, or results, or conclusions of any 
manufacturers of canteens, or material for canteens, or the com- 
ponents of canteens. I made my own tests. 

The methods of tests and manner of making experiments arc 
described on p. 77. 

Fluid z'crsus Avoirdupois, Measurement — It has been assumed 
throughout this monograph, that 455 and 7-10 grains constituted 
the fluid ounce, which is 18 and 2-10 in excess of an ounce avoirdu- 
pois. Manufacturers often state that the capacity of a llask is 
so-and-so many ounces, meaning ounces avoirdupois, not liquid 
measure. 



Tinning and Retinning Sheet Steel Used in Making Can'teen 

Flasks — Description of the Processes of Tinning and 

OF Retinning MALLEAr.LE Ikon and Steel Plati:. 

The specifications for the regulation army canteen itemize that 
it shall be "made of XXXX tin, circular in shape, 7 and \ inches 
in diameter, sides oval and smooth, thickness through, three (3) 
inches", etc. 

As the Ordnance Department has, for more than a generation, 
been making, or contracting for the making of canteen flasks "of 
XXXX tin", no treatise or monograph about military canteen is 
complete unaccompanied by a reference to sheet metal goods (r 
articles of iron or steel coated with tin. 

The coating of articles of iron and steel ware with zinc, or, as the 
process is generally known, "galvanizing" them, as a means of 
retarding oxidation and for other reasons, is an industry about 
which there is no mystery. 

The tinning of malleable iron, or of steel, is an easy process to 
master. The price of the metal used to tin articles makes the cost 
of the material more than the labor cost. 

The tinning of sheet steel, such as is used in making canteens 
and the retinning of tin ware, are special processes. 

It is understood that the terms "X", or "XX", or "XXX", or 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



143 



"XXXX" tin, as applied to sheet tin, refer to the thickness of the 
metal plus its tin coating. 

Inirther, that four cross tin, or "XXXX" tin, is a sheet of tinned 
steel plate, thicker than three cross tin, "XXX" tin, that has been 
pickled, cleaned, immersed; first in a bath of molten tin; second, 
into a bath of hot tallow, or oil ; third, passed, while the tin is still 
melted, through steel rollers running in the hot oil, that strip off 
all superfluous tin, leaving a thin, smooth, coating. 

The tinplate used in making the regulation canteens that I have 
tested, has a coating of tin of about three (3) pounds to the box of 
112 sheets of 14 x 20, or, say, .0138 pounds per square foot, two 
sides. 

The best grade of tinplate made by the American Tinplate Com- 
pany is known as "AAAA Charcoal", and has a coating of five (5) 
pounds to the box, or .023 pounds per square foot. 

Either of these coatings is very light, and the action of the dies 
in drawing or stamping the canteen sides into shape injures the 
surface to some extent and has a tendency to make it porous, thus 
causing the steel plate to soon rust through the coating of tin. 

The Lanz Alanufacturing Co., of Chicago, claims that the proper 
way to make tin canteens is to retin them by the process employed 
on all fine stamped tinware ; that is, to retin the sides of the canteen 
after they have been stamped into shape and before the sides have 
been soldered around the edges. 

The process of retinning differs from the process of tinning the 
plate above outlined, and is as follows. No pickling is required. 

Tn retinning the article is dipped by hand : first, into hot beef 
tallow or palm oil; second, into molten tin; third, it is drawn by 
hand through a pot of hot oil which gives a smooth, bright surface 
but does not remove the tin as do the rollers in making the plate. 
After the tin has "set," the article is hand rubbed in flour. 

The coating left on the plate is equal to about 45 pounds to the 
1,000 square feet, or .045 pounds per square foot, or nearly three 
times as much tin as is found on the surface of the average regula- 
tion canteen. 

This retinning process, or Lanz method, of making canteens pro- 
duces more durable ones, hence more desirable ones, than the tin- 
ning method. They should last three to four times as long as the 
regulation canteen now issued by the military establishment. They 
cost somewhat more, but are worth more. 

The Lanz Manufacturing Co. also suggests, in addition to retin- 
ning the flask, that either a small piece of zinc be soldered to the 



144 lllSTORV OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

inside, or tiiat llic nozzle (•! ilie canteen be made of zinc, — as it is 
a well known fact that zinc and tin plate, soldered together, cause 
a slight galvanic action, which seems to prevent oxidation to some 
extent. 

If any kind of tin canteen is retainetl in service, the advantages 
to be gained by the ado])tion by the U. S. of the Lanz method are 
unquestionable. Such is accordingly recommended, coupled with 
the further suggestion that this statement be referred to the Board 
of Ordnance, Fortification and Equipment, and also to the Chief 
of Ordnance, U. S. A. 

I have inspected creamery, also cheese factory, appliances and 
dairy utensils at 316 Robert St.. St. Paul. Minn., and elsewhere, 
made of XXXX Charcoal tin, retinned after they had been stamped 
into shape by the process observed by ^Nlr. Lanz. 

Some of these utensils, milk cans, separators, and other appli- 
ances had been in use for several years and subjected to very nuich 
the same kind of banging round that a soldier gives his canteen, 
but, in general, they showed only slight traces of rust, even in milk 
vats submerged in moving water. 

The different processes of the coating of sheet metal goods and 
articles of iron and steel with zinc — "galvanizing" — them ; also of 
tinning malleable iron, wrought iron, and steel ; also of retinning the 
latter; in other words, the methods of coating with zinc and tin b\- 
immersion, are descrilied and explained by W. T. Flanders, of 
Nashua, N. H., in a practical treatise, edition 1900, published by 
David Williams Co.. 232-8 William St., X. V. Xo description is 
known to me of ])rocesses of covering thin plates with aluminum 
of tin. The difficulties of a reliable solder would not appear to 
apply to such. If a tenacious coat of tin could l)e applied to a thin 
sheet of aluminum of requisite strength, durability, etc., the sheets 
of the latter so coated can be joined as securely as in the present 
regulation tin canteen. — it might be an improvment upon the present 
service canteen. 

In a recent communication received from the Xew Jersey Alumi- 
num Company, of Xewark, X. J., the firm states: "We are for- 
warding you today by express two canteens made of aluminum, and 
all one piece, there being no seam or solder used. You will also 
observe that we have covered these in a crude way with felt, since 
you advocate not sending them' naked. Our principal object now 
is to find out whether we have made a canteen that will stand the test 
such as you are liable to give it and as to whether we have caught 
your idea as to shape. These which we sent you would be the most 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. I45 

convenient to make. What we are after principally now is to nnd 
out whether we have made a canteen that will stand the test. We 
can readily make improvements as to covering and stoppers later on. 
We have spent some little money to produce these two samples and 
we sincerely hope that they will meet all requirements. We would 
thank you to acknowledge receipt and inform us later what the 
results are." 

The Indian Aluminum Company, Limited, Manufacturers and 
Importers of Aluminum Ware, Mount Road, Madras, British India, 
write as follows : 

"We have read your letter in the Aluminum World of February, 
1901, and as there appears to be a reluctancy in coming forward on 
the part of some of the American manufacturers, we beg to for- 
ward you a sample of our 2-pint aluminum water bottle. We manu- 
facture many patterns of different sizes, but this is a pattern which 
we have supplied many regiments in India. It is made out of one 
single piece of aluminum, without seams of any kind whatsoever, 
nor is it spun or pressed as in the case of the water bottle of German 
manufacture. We have entirely superseded the German manufac- 
ture of water bottles in India, and many officers have reported most 
favorably on the water bottles that we have supplied their regiments 
with. 

"We regret to state that we do not quite understand your method 
of testing, but if you will be good enough to point out any flaws in 
the sample sent you, we would esteem it a favor and be quite pre- 
pared to remedy the defect in our future supply. 

"We have made these bottles on one or two occasions of a size 
large enough to contain a gallon. 

The Indian water bottle appears to be shaped like one of the 
cork sections of a life preserver belt. One face is concave, so as to 
fit close to the body. The outer face is convex. Ends are rounded. 
Top has four ventilating eyelets. The whole is covered with felt, or 
felted cloth, the thickness and weight of which are not described. 
It is not stated whether or not there is an inner cover or any sub- 
stance between the felted cloth and the flask. It is provided with a 
carbine hook. See cuts No. loi-b, 102-c. It would be improved by 
the addition of an openable canvas cover over the felt to retard evap- 
oration in hot weather. One pattern has a carry strap about its mid- 
dle, buttoned by overlapping on the outside. Another pattern has a 
leather carry strap extending over its edges, also under the bottom. 
The strap is held in place by four leather loops, the latter being 
stitched to the felted cloth cover. 



146 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

The New Jersey Alnminnm Co., Newark, N. J., manifests activ- 
ity and submits two oblong-shaped aluminum canteens, differing 
only in capacity, of its most recent manufacture. No seams or 
solder said to be used. Method of construction is not explained. 
In this report they are designated "MM" and "NN" respectively. 

Canteen "MM" — Weight of naked flask, 9 and ^ ounces; capac- 
ity 42 fluid ounces. Weight, filled, cover on and dry, 56 ounces, 
avoirdupois. 

Canteen "NN" — Weight of naked flask, 7 and ^ ounces ; capac- 
ity, 38 and I fluid ounces. Weight, empty, dry cover on, cork in, 
8 and | ounces, avoirdupois. Weight, filled, cover dry, 49 ounces, 
avoirdupois. 

Both have removable single felt covers, laced up on one side 
only, Lanz method ; high collar. 



Board of Ordnance, Fortification and Equipment. 

It is submitted that the reports regarding canteens and the tests 
made thereof by me have shown: ist. The advantages and disad- 
vantages of the Lanz Canteen and cover system as compared with 
the Regulation Canteen. 2d. The advantages and disadvantages 
of the Lanz Canteen system as compared with other canteens dififer- 
ing from it in material, construction, or shape. 3d. The suitability 
uf the Lanz Canteen for the use of troops in campaign, in the field, 
vr on the march. 

If the selection of a canteen rested with troops inured to tropical 
service, it is believed that they would choose the Lanz in preference 
to the Regulation Canteen or to any experimental canteen now 
under consideration. 

There are certain obstinate facts hard to ignore. One is ex- 
pressed tersely and comprehensively by Captain Alfred E. Bradley, 
Asst. Surgeon, Medical Dept., U. S. A., after a series of tests made 
at Fort Snelling, Minn., of the Regulation Canteen versus the Lanz 
Canteen. He writes : "The outer cover of the Regulation Canteen 
prevents the access of water to the felt. The felt, not being satur- 
ated, loses its small amount of water comparatively soon, and, with 
the passing of evaporation, the contents of the canteen soon become 
warm. The Lanz Canteen absorbs its water quickly, and its canvas 
cover, placed dry over the wet felt, retards evaporation and keeps 
the contents cool for a much longer period." 

This statement of fact is, in a nutshell, a substantiation of the 
majority of the claims of the Lanz Canteen. 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 



147 



Success means the displacement of somebody, or something, or 
the survival of the strongest. Naturally, the Department charged 
with the manufacture and issue of canteens wants to continue to 
make the same. It follows that tests and experiments with a device 
originating with any inventor should be conducted along lines of 
the Department rather than those formulated by the inventor as 
essential in order to demonstrate the superiority of his device. 

The Board of Ordnance, Fortification and Equipment is not cir- 
cumstanced to conduct canteen tests in anything like the manner in 
which they would be tested by a soldier in the ranks in campaign 
time, in any climate, hot or cold. 

The Board measurably relies upon tests, experiments, etc., made 
by those whose facilities, environments and opportunities enable 
them to do detail work. 

It is recommended that the tests, experiments and recommenda- 
tions regarding the Regulation Canteen I'crsiis the Lanz Canteen, 
and other canteens presented for use in the military service, or 
reported by the Inspector General, Dept. of Dakota, on dates in 
September, October and November, 1900, and transmitted to the 
Inspector General of the Army, through official channels, be referred 
for the consideration of the Board of Ordnance, Fortification and 
Equipment. 



TEST No. 78. 



7-35 ^ 

8-35 ' 

9-35 ' 

10-35 ; 

"•35 

12-35 P 
'-35 

2-35 ' 

3-35 ' 

4-3S ' 



OutsiJe 
Temperature. 



■^52 

56 
62 

66 
66 

72 



Temperature of Wat 



Each canteen was full. All covers were dry. Allofthe 
canteens were suspended from a trestle so that free 
circulation prevailed. 



94 
84 
78 
76 
74 
74 
80 
80 74 



94 94 



148 



HISTORY OF THE JMILITARV CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 79. 



7.40 a 

8.40 ' 

9.40 ' 
10.40 ' 
11.40 
12.40 p 

1.40 ' 

2.40 

3-40 

4.40 ' 



Outside 
Temperatui 



Temp 



of Water in Canteen? 



Each canteen was full. All covers were dry. All of the 
canteens were laid on a stone (granite)window sill, in 
the sun, and remained soexposed for nine (9) hours. 



68 68 

72 72 

74 74 

76 76 

78 78 

80 80 

So 80 



B 


c c 


E 


H 


L 


Q 


R 


s 


60 


60 


60 


60 


60 


60 


60 


60 


62 


62 


66 


62 


64 


62 


62 


64 


64 


62 


66 


62 


66 


64 


64 


64 


66 


64 


70 


64 


68 


66 


66 


66 


70 


68 


74 


66 


72 


68 


70 


68 


72 


70 


76 


68 


76 


72 


72 


72 


76 


74 


80 


70 


7« 


74 


74 


74 


7« 


76 


82 


72 


80 


76 


76 


76 


80 


7« 


80 


72 


82 


76 


7« 


7« 


80 


7« 


7S 


72 


80 


76 


7« 


7« 



60 60 

62 62 

64 64 

66 66 

68 68 

72; 72 

74 76 

76 78 

78| 78 

80 78 



TEST No. 80. 



7.35 a. m 
8.35 " 
9-35 " 
10.35 " 

11-35 " 
12.35 P' '" 
1-35 " 
2.3s " 

3-35 " 
4-35 " 



Outside 
Temperature. 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Each canteen was full. All felt covers were wet. Can- 
vas covers were not immersed. 



50 50 

60 58 
60 1 60 

621 60 
62' 62 



60 60 
60 1 60 



TEST No. 81. 



7.40 

8.40 

9.40 

10.40 

11.40 

12.40 

1.40 

2.40 

3-40 

4.40 



Outside 
Temperature. 



remperature of Water in Canteens. 



Each canteen was filled. All felt, or other covers were wet. 
The canteens were suspended from a trestle placed on the 
L of the Army Huilding, St. Paul, Minn. Not in con- 
tact. Free circulation of air prevailed. 



A A 


B 


c c 


E 


H 


L 


MM 


Q 


R 


s 


T 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 


46 


60 


S8 


60 


64 


S4 


60 


64 


S8 


S8 


60 


60 


64 


64 


66 


74 


S8 


64 


66 


62 


62 


64 


62 


64 


64 


66 


78 


60 


64 


66 


64 


64 


62 


62 


62 


62 


62 


76 


62 


62 


64 


60 


62 


60 


62 


60 


60 


62 


78 


64 


62 


64 


62 


62 


60 


60 


62 


62 


60 


82 


64 


64 


66 


60 


62 


60 


60 


64 


62 


60 


78 


64 


64 


66 


60 


60 


60 


60 


62 


60 


60 


74 


64 


64 


68 


S8 


60 


60 


60 


58 


58 


63 


74 


62 


68 


68 


.58 


60 


60 


58 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 82, 



149 




Temperature of Water in Canteens. 

Each canteen was filled. Canteens "A"— Regulation— and 
"Q," also "R" and "S"— Lanz— had dry covers. All 
other canteens were immersed for ten (10) minutes. Open- 
able canvas covers were not immersed. All of the can- 
teens were laid on a stone (granite) window sill in the sun 
and remai ne d so ex posed for nine (9) hours. 



A 


A A; B 


c c 


E 


H 


L 


MM 


Q 


R 


s 


T 


u 


48 


48' 48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


48 


7^ 


5^ 


58 5b 


58 


64 


56 


56 


58 


52 


54 


54 


56 


56 


b4 


60 60 


60 


72 


58 


60 


62 


56 


58 


56 


60 


58 


72 


64 


62 


62 


78 


58 


62 


64 


60 


62 


67 


6^ 


67, 


78 


66 


66 


64 


80 


60 


66 


6S 


64 


66 


66 


66 


61 


82 


70 


68 


66 


84 


64 


70 


72 


68 


70 


70 


6S 


6,S 


84 


71 


68 


68 


86 


64 


76 


78 


72 


74 


72 


70 


70 


86 


78 


72 


72 


86 


66 


80 


82 


76 


76 


7'1 


72 


70 


86 


82 


72 


76 


86 


68 


82 


86 


78 


76 


76 


77 


70 


86 


84 74 


76 


H4 


68 


82 


84 


80 


76 


76 


70 


70 



TEST No. 83. 



7.45 a. m 
8.45 " 
9-45 " 
10.45 " 

11-45 " 

12.45 p. ni 

1-45 " 

2.45 " 

3-45 " 



Outside 
'J'emperati 



+70 
80 

78 
78 
84 
88 
88 
78 
72 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Kach canteen was filled. All canteens were immersed 
for ten (to) minutes. Removable canvas covers were 
not immersed. All of the canteens were suspended 
from a trestle placed in the sun on the roof of the Army 
Building, St. Paul, and remained so exposed for eight 
{§) hours. 



A A 



C C 



801 66 
86i 70 



u 



50 50 

62 60 

64 62 

66 64 

68 66 

70 68 

68 6S 

68 68 

64 62 



TEST No. 84. 



8. IS a. 

915 ' 

10.15 ' 

11.15 ' 

12.15 P 

I-I5 ' 

2.15 ' 

3-15 ' 

4-15 ' 

S-I5 ' 



Outside 
Temperature. 



+70 
72 

82 

88 
84 
84 
80 
84 
84 
80 



Temperature of Water in Cant^ 



All of the canteens were filled. Each canteen was im- 
mersed for ten (10) minutes. Openable canvas covers 
were not immersed AUof the canteens were then laid 
on a stone (granite) window sill in the sun, on the roof 
of the Army Building, St. Paul, Minn., and remained 
so e.xposed for nine (9) hours. 



A 


A A 


B 


c c 


E 


L 


MM 


Q 


R 


s 


T 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


50 


62 


60 


60 


60 


64 


60 


62 


58 


58 


56 


58 


68 


66 


64 


64 


72 


64 


66 


62 


62 


62 


64 


72 


70 


70 


68 


82 


68 


72 


66 


66 


66 


68 


72 


70 


70 


70 


88 


70 


74 


68 


70 


68 


70 


76 


72 


72 


70 


92 


74 


76 


72 


74 


72 


72 


80 


72 


70 


70 


86 


76 


7b 


72 


74 


72 


70 


82 


74 


72 


72 


86 


78 


78 


72 


74 


72 


72 


84 


76 


72 


72 


86 


80 


80 


74 


76 


74 


72 


84 


78 


72 


72 


84 


80 


82 


74 


76 


74 


72 



150 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 85. 



7.45 a. m 
8.45 " 
9-45 " 
10.45 " 

11.45 " 
12.45 P- m 
1.45 " 
2-45 " 
3-45 " 
4-45 " 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Outside 
Temperatur 



+80 

86 
92 
94 
100 
100 
100 



90 



All of the canteens were filled. Each canteen was im- 
mersed for ten (10) minutes. Openable canvas covers 
were not immersed. All of the canteens were then 
suspended from a trestle in the sun, exposed on the 
roof of the I. of Army Building, St. Paul, Minn. 

U 



A 


A A 


B 


c c 


E 


L 


MM 


Q 

so 


R 

SO 


s 
SO 


T 

so 


SO 


SO 


so 


so 


so 


SO 


SO 


6S 


64 


66 


64 


68 


66 


66 


62 


60 


60 


64 


70 


68 


70 


68 


80 


70 


70 


66 


64 


66 


68 


72 


70 


72 


72 


86 


72 


72 


70 


68 


70 


70 


74 


72 


72 


72 


88 


74 


74 


72 


70 


74 


72 


82 


72 


7b 


72 


94 


7^ 


74 


74 


76 


76 


72 


90 


7^ 


70 


72 


98 


82 


7^ 


74 


76 


76 


74 


94 


82 


7^ 


74 


100 


90 


84 


76 


80 


80 


76 


q8 


86 


76 


74 


102 


92 


88 


80 


82 


80 


76 


q8 


90 


7^ 


74 


100 


94 


90 


78 


82 


80 


74 



TEST No. 86. 



7-45 
8.45 
9-45 
10.45 
11.45 
12.45 
1-45 

2-45 

3-45 
4-45 



Outside 
Temperature. 



+86 
90 
92 
96 
98 
104 
104 
104 
94 
94 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Conditions: Same as in preceding Test — No. 85. 



TEST No. 87. 



. 7-45 
«-45 
9-45 

10.45 

"•45 
12.45 
1.45 
2-45 
3-45 
4-45 



Temperature of Watrr in Canteens. 



Outside 
Temperature. 



+78 
80 
84 
88 
88 
90 
90 
88 
80 
So 



All of the canteens were filled. All of the canteens were 
immersed, both covers on, for ten (10) minutes before 
being exposed to the sun, suspended from a trestle 
placed on the roof of the L of the Army Building, St. 
Paul, Minn. 



A 


A A 


B 


c c 


E 


L 


MM 


Q 


K 


s 


T 


SO 


SO 


SO 


so 


SO 


.SO 


SO 


SO 


SO 


so 


SO 


66 


64 


62 


64 


74 


66 


64 


60 


60 


S8 


62 


70 


68 


68 


66 


82 


70 


70 


64 


64 


64 


68 


70 


68 


70 


68 


88 


70 


70 


66 


66 


66 


68 


76 


68 


70 


68 


88 


72 


70 


68 


68 


70 


70 


80 


68 


70 


68 


92 


72 


72 


68 


72 


70 


70 


86 


72 


70 


68 


02 


7« 


80 


68 


74 


70 


70 


88 


76 


70 


68 


90 


84 


86 


70 


74 


72 


72 


86 


7« 


70 


72 


86 


82 


86 


72 


76 


72 


70 


84 


7« 


70 


72 


84 


82 


84 


72 


76 


72 


68 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 88. 



15] 



7.45 a. m. 

8.45 " . 

9-45 " - 
10.45 ■" - 
11.45 " . 
12.45 p. m. 

1-45 " - 
2.45 " - 

3-45 " - 
4.45 " . 



Outside 
Temperature. 



+58 

66 
70 
72 
78 
80 
80 
78 
76 
76 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



Conditions same as in Test No. 87. 



62 64 

64I 66 
64 68 



TEST No. 89. 



Outside 
Temperature. 



7.40 a. m. 

8.40 " . 

9.40 " . 
10.40 " . 
11.40 " . 
12.40 p. m 

1.40 " . 

2.40 " 

3.40 " . 

4.40 " . 



+64 
66 

72 
72 
82 
82 
88 
82 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



All openable canvas covers were removed before immers- 
ing the feltcovered canteens for ten (10) muiutes. The 
dry canvas covers were then replaced over the wet 
felt and canteens exposed same as in Test No. 88. 



A A 


B 


c c 


E 


L 


MM 


Q 


R 


s 


T 


.SO 


50 


50 


50 


50 


SO 


SO 


SO 


SO 


SO 


Sb 


Sb 


S8 


66 


S8 


S8 


S4 


62 


S4 


S8 


60 




S8 


70 


60 


60 


S6 


62 


S8 


60 


62 


60 


60 


72 


62 


62 


S8 


62 


S8 


62 


62 


62 


62 


76 


64 


64 


60 


64 


60 


64 


64 


64 


66 


82 


66 


66 


66 


66 


66 


66 


66 


66 


66 


86 


70 


6S 


68 


68 


68 


6S 


68 


66 


66 


86 


70 


70 


70 


70 


70 


68 


70 


68 


66 


88 


76 


76 


72 


72 


70 


70 


70 


68 


66 


86 


78 


78 


74 


72 


72 


70 



TEST No. 90. 



7.45 a. m 
8.45 " 
9-45 " 
10.45 " 
"•45 " 
12.45 p. m 

1-45 " 

2.45 " 

3-45 " 
4-45 " 



Outside 
Temperatur 



+62 
62 
64 
60 
62 
60 
62 
64 

66 
64 



Temperatt 



Canvas and felt covers immersed for ten (10) minutes 
before commencing test. 



A'AABCCE L MM Q 



56; 54 

56i 56 
58 58 
58 58 
58 58 
58 58 
58 58 
60 60 
60! 60 



152 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 91. 



a.oo a. m. 

9.00 " . 
10.00 " . 
11.00 " 
12.00 m. . 

1. 00 p. m. 

2.00 " . 

3.00 " . 

4.00 " 

5.00 " . 



Outside 
Temperatvre. 



+72 
76 

So 

84 
84 
86 
H 
H 
86 



Temperature of Water in Canteens. 



All canvas covers removed before immersing canteens 
for ten (10) minutes. Canvas covers then repLaced 
over wet felt, before commencement of test. 



Q 


R 


s 


T 


S2 


S3 


S2 


S2 


S6 


s« 


S6 


s« 


bo 


60 


S8 


60 


62 


62 


62 


64 


64 


64 


64 


66 


66 


68 


66 


66 


66 


68 


66 


66 


68 


70 


68 


68 


68 




68 


70 


68 


72 


68 


70 



TEST No. 92. 



8.00 a. m... 

9.00 " ... 
10.00 " ... 
1 1 00 " ... 
12.00 111- . .. 

1. 00 p. m. .. 

2.00 " ... 

3.00 " ... 

4. 00 " 

5.00 " ... 



Outside 
Temperatui 



Temperature of Water in Cant 



Both canvas outer, and felt inner covers immersed for 
ten (10) minutes before commencement of test. 



50; 50 
60' 60 





TEST 


No 


93. 
















Out- 


Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


side 
Temp. 


All canteens filled and covers dry. 


A 


A A 


B 


c c 


E 


L 


MM 


^ 


R 


S 


T 


" 


Y* z + 


+82 


S2 


^2 


S2 


S2 


S2 


S2 


S2 


S2 


S2 


S2 


■52 


S2 


52 5^ 


84 


60 


62 


60 


S8 


64 


62 


62 


S8 


S8 


s« 




=;8 


64' 64 


90 


72 


70 


68 


68 


80 


70 


72 


64 


66 


66 


66 


66 


74 72 


92 


82 


7^ 


74 


76 


88 


7« 


7« 


70 


72 


70 


70 


70 


80 7S 


100 


86 


86 


82 


82 


92 


86 


86 


74 


76 


76 


76 


76 


84 84 


98 


90 


90 


86 


88 


96 


90 


90 


80 


80 


80 


80 


80 


88 86 


92 


Q2 


90 


90 


90 


Q4 


90 


92 


82 


82 


82 


84 


84 


86 84 


90 


90 


90 


90 


90 


90 


90 


90 


84 


84 


84 


84 


84 


86 86 


90 


88 


90 


90 


88 


90 


90 


90 


«4 


84 


84 


86 


86 


86! 86 



9.00 a. Ill 

10 00 " 

1 1 . 00 " 

12.00 111. 

1. 00 p. Ill 

2.00 " 

3.00 " 

4.00 " 

S-oo " 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 
TEST No. 91. 



153 



7.40 a. m 
8.40 " 
9.40 " 
10.40 " 
11.40 " 
12.40 p. m 
1.40 " 
2.40 " 
3.40 " 
4.40 " 









Temperature of Water in Canteens. 




side 
Temp. 


All canteens filled and covers dry e.\cept Cantee 


n "T," the 


covers of which wene uet. 




A 
S4 


A A 


B 

S4 


C C 


E 

S4 


• L 

S4 


MM 

^4 


Q 

S4 


R 

S4 


s 


T 

■^4 


U 

S4 


S4 


zt 


+82 


S4 


86 


64 


62 


62 


62 


68 


64 


66 


62 


60 


60 


62 


62 


64 


64 


100 


70 


68 


70 


68 


7« 


70 


72 


68 


64 


68 


68 


66 


72 


72 


100 


72 


72 


72 


72 


88 


74 


74 


72 


68 


70 


70 


72 


80 


7« 


100 


72 


72 


74 


74 


90 


76 


76 


74 


70 


72 


72 


72 


82 


82 


90 


76 


74 


74 


■74 


94 


76 


76 


7b 


76 


74 


74 


74 


86 


86 


9S ■ 


7« 


74 


74 


74 


94 


76 


76 


76 


76 


74 


74 


74 


88 


86 


100 


8b 


7^ 


74 


74 


96 


82 


80 


76 


7« 


76 


74 


74 


90 


90 


q8 


92 


82 


76 


74 


96 


88 


88 


7X 


80 


7J^ 


76 


76 


go 


qo 


92 


96 


86 


76 


7^ 


96 


92 


92 


7<S 


82 


7X 


74 


7S 


92 


90 



TEST No. 95. 







Temperature of Water in Canteens. 


Hour 


side 
Temp. 






Conditions: Same as in Test No. 94. 




^ 


A A 


B 


c c 


E 


L 


MM 


Q 


R 


s 


T 


u 


Y* 


zf 


7-30 a. m 


+86 


.4 


'^4 


54 


S4 


54 


54 


54 


54 


54 


54 


54 


54 


54 


It 


8.30 " 


92 


70 


72 


68 


68 


72 


72 


72 


70 


66 


64 


68 


68 


68 


930 " 


100 


74 


7b 


72 


72 


7« 


74 


74 


74 


70 


68 


72 


72 


72 


72 


10.30 " 


100 


7« 


7« 


7« 


76 


84 


7« 


7« 


76 


72 


72 


76 


76 


80 


7« 


11-30 " 


104 


7« 


7« 


7ii 


76 


96 


80 


80 


76 


7« 


76 


7« 


76 


8b 


84 


12.30 p. m 


104 


82 


7X 


7« 


76 


9cS 


80 


80 


76 


80 


7« 


7H 


7b 


90 


88 


130 " 


104 


88 


7« 


7« 


7-'^ 


100 


82 


80 


7« 


80 


7« 


7« 


7« 


92 


90 


230 " 


1 00 


94 


82 


7« 


7« 


100 


84 


84 


7S 


82 


7« 


7« 


80 


92 


90 


330 " 


96 


96 


84 


76 


74 


gs 


90 


90 


76 


82 


80 


76 


7b 


92 


92 


4-30 " 


92 


9b 


86 


76 


76 


96 


90 


92 76 


84 


7S' 76 


78 


92 


90 



*Description of Canteen "Y."— From Messrs. Hermann. Schutte & Co., Cannstatt a Necker> 
Germany. Aluminum, 99% pure, drawn and pressed out of one solid piece. Mouthpiece, two 
pressed parts. No cover. Weight of flask, 8% ozs. Capacity, 46 fluid ounces. Weight, filled, 
57V2 ounces, avoirdupois. 

tDESCRiPTiON OF Canteen "Z." — Circular Aluminum flask, made by the Griswold Manufactur- 
ing Co., Erie, Pa. Cast, including lug, from a wood pattern and wood core bo.\. No cover. Weight 
of flask, 17^:4 oimces. C'apacity, 52 fluid ounces. Weight, filled, 72 ounces. 



154 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CAMTEEN. 
RECORD OF CANTEEIN "F." 



Synopsis of tests, open-air, made at Headquarters, Department of Dakota, St. 
Paul, Minn., of the Newark, N. J. Aluminum Flask — Circular Canteen; no solder said 
to be used: Covered by the Lanz method with J/g-inch felt; openable canvas cover. 
Capacity, 44 ounces. Weight 16 ounces. Termed in this monograph. Canteen "F. " 

No. of Tests 33. Frozen in Test No. 30; also in No. 38. 

Test No. 33, leakage first noticed. Test No. 38 leakage established. 



No. of 
Test. 



Outside 
Temperature. 



I Temperature of 
I Water in Canteen. 



Maximum. Minimum. 



Maximum.! Minimum. 



• 54 
52 
56 
112 
no 
116 
116 
116 
100 



I Frozen withdrawn. 

Leaked after fust hour. 



Leaked. 



39 


42 


38 


^t 


52 


" 




40 


•4 


12 


96 


32 


" 




41 


2S 


10 


9S 


36 


" 




42 


26 


22 


94 


32 






43 


12 


4 


94 


32 


" 




44 


34 


14 


106 


38 


" 




45 


- 2 


-10 


74 


32 






46 


Zero. 


10 


102 


32 






47 


+28 


+ 14 


90 


34 






48 


18 


14 


80 


32 


Frozen. 




49 


• 18 


8 


130 


34 


J,eaky. 




50 


24 


4 


50 


•)2 


" 




51 


16 


S 


56 


32 


" 




52 


14 


2 


178 


32 






53 


28 


18 


168 


38 






54 


30 


22 


170 


44 


" 




55 


22 


8 


52 


32 


" 




56 


38 


24 


50 


38 






57 


42 


32 


52 


42 . 


" 




58 


18 


12 


54 


32 






59 


2 


- 4 


52 


32 


" 




60 


20 


+ 2 


1 170 


38 


" 




6i 


20 


Zero. 


172 


32 




# 


62 


22 


20 


\ 168 


32 






Highest... 


+ 42 


-10 


, +178 


+ 32 


- 





The record of Canteen "F," covering a period of thirty-four (34) days, is given in 
extenso in order to illustrate, practically, the thoroughness with which all tests were 
conducted. My tests were not based on any theory. My recommendations have been 
based upon the results of numerous tests under varying conditions. 

Aluminum and its alloys is such a satisfactory metal to make canteen flasks of — if 
the metal could be satisfactorily soldered — that I part with it with reluctance. The 
aluminum manufacturers have not yet, to my knowledge, succeeded in making a canteen 
flask that will meet the requirements of the military service. 



HISTORY OF Till:: MILITARY' CA.XTEEN. 155 

A COMPARISUN. 
Till': RiioiLATiox X'lksus tiii: Lanz Canteen. 

Thoui2:lit was applied and experiments conducted in the U. S. 
Army more than a quarter of a century ago to the solution of the 
question of how to keep water in a tin canteen palatable in a hot 
region. It resolved itself into the adoption of the present Regula- 
tion Canteen. The formation of judgment regarding a canteen 
suitable for military use is slow work. It is easy to arrive at a con- 
clusion regarding a device that is merely a receptacle to hold liquids 
in for the consumption of tourists, sportsmen, and bicyclists, on a 
summer outing. My conclusions are that the Regulation Canteen 
fails to secure the benefits of a prolonged evaporative action for as 
long a time as the Lanz Canteen does. The Lanz Canteen prevents 
rapid changes of temperature of its contents. Its shape and 
method of construction, — both as regards the metallic flask and its 
components, the covers, — dilfer from other canteens. The means, 
methods and principles involved, physical, mechanical and rational, 
are elsewhere described in this monograph, fn cold weather, the 
dry felt is an effective non-conductor of heat. In hot weather the 
saturated — canvas encased — cover of all-wool felt applied to the 
filled metallic flask continues moist for a number of hours longer 
than any other canteen, hence possesses the merit of keeping the 
fluid contents cool and relishable for a maximum period. 

A defect of the Regulation Canteen is that it is impracticable 
to easily thoroughly saturate the inner felt, or Petersham, cover. 
After a little field service, the outer canvas cover accumulates 
grease, dirt, etc., to such an extent as to become nearly water-proof, 
despite immersion ; hence there is little cooling action by evapora- 
tion. Herein one of the advantages of the Lanz Canteen applies, 
because it has an openable cover, whereas the Regulation cover is 
permanently attached, unless the stitches are cut. 

The musket carried by our army during the civil war period, 
1 86 1 -5, could put an enemy out of action at a range of 600 yards, 
but the effective range of the Springfield muzzle-loader was limited 
as compared with the Cal. 30 U. S. Magazine Rifle, sheathed pro- 
jectile, with wdiich our troops are now armed. The energy and 
penetration of the latter at a range in excess of two miles is known. 
The determination of the relative merits of the old caliber .45 small 
firearm of projection, as compared with the rifle at present in the 
hands of our soldiers, should not rest upon the limitations of the 
Springfield, but upon the far-reaching powers of the Krag-Jorgenson. 



is6 



HlSTOm- OF THE MU-TTAUV CANTEEN. 



As it is with firctiiins, so it is willi i-aiitcrns. 

I'ur a iiunihcr of hours, say. six, the kci;ulalioii Canteen will, 
under ordinary circumstances and moderately uniform temperature, 
keep water as cool as the Lanz ; but, after the water absorbed by 
the covers of the Regulation Canteen has evaporated and the con- 
tents thus begun to rise in temperature, the Lanz Canteen will con- 
tinue to keep its contents at a lower, therefore more relishable, tem- 
perature than the Regulation Canteen. 



/i/umir?c^m. F/usk /if Canitens, Si>7f/e />tece , /nade m Actr/sz-uAe, 
3cide/7, Oernrarr^^ fumishecL For teat 6y the /.a/?xCanUe/? Co., 

Chtca^o, J II. 






A full and impartial consideration of the merits of a canteen 
intended for use in the field, during a campaign, or on the march, 
cannot be said to have been effected until the canteen has been given 
exhaustive tests assimilating to such practical tests as would be given 
it by soldiers in any climate, hot or cold. 

My oflficial reports show that I have given numerous canteens 
these tests in environments of outside temperature varying from 
minus ten (lo) degrees F. to plus one hundred and twenty-five 
(125) degrees F. 

AIv conclusion and recommendation is that the Lanz Canteen 
warrants a trial with a view to its adoption in the V . S. Army. 



HISTORY OF TflE MILIFARV CANTEEN. 



157 



Factors to be taken into cousideratioa in the selection of a Can- 
teen intended for Mse in the Military Service. 

- , Spun. 

I :■ Ca.t. 

i Pressed. 

ummnum ~ 

,' .Stamped. 

; Welded. 

i Rolled, .11- Sheet, Metal. 



Constnictu) 



Ca.vtee.n 



(■on>,M, 



I Tin. 

I Ebonite. 

Wood. 

Enameled Metal. 

Tinned " 

Galvanized '• 
i^ Other Metals. 



j Single Piece. 



j' .Side Pieces, Ears or 
' Loops, attached to flask. 
j Loops attached to Cover. 
/ Oval f Concave-convex faces. 



Joined P 



Oblong 
Gourd 

'J Bottle shaped 
Circular 



Flask. 



Insider 



Mouth Piece. 
Stopper. 
Chain. 
Triangles, or 



Covex faces. 

Cylindrical. 

Flat. 

One face flat, opj) 

face curved. 
Durability. 
Weight. 
Capacity. 
All-wool Felt. 
Felted Cloth. 
.Sponge Cloth. 
Duck, ov Canvas. 
.\ny textile fa!)ric. 
Leather. 



Queries. 

Can air-pressure be utilized in lieu of the inside water-pressure used, as stated by 
the Pittsburgh Reduction Co., in shaping spun aluminum canteen flasks? 

Will a cast aluminum flask juove as durable as a flask of spun aluminum? 

How can triangles, ears, lugs, or rings be substantially fastened at the sides of an 
aluminum flask, and thus do away with a strap around the cover? 

Bv what method is the Canteen Flask made? 



158 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

"Ubor Fcldllaschcn unci Kochgeschiire aus Aluminum. Im Augt- 
rage des k. Kriegsministeriums bearbeitet von Dr. Plagge, Stabsarzt, 
und Georg Lebbin. Chemiker. (Canteen and cooking utensils of 
aluminum. Prepared by direction of the war ministry by Dr. 
Plagge. staff surgeon, and George Lebbin, chemist.) lOO pp. Ber- 
lin, 1893" : — 

EXTRACT. 

"Three kinds of tests : 

(i) Rough, practical usefulness. 

(2) Durability, wearing qualities and cost h-om an eco- 
nomical point of view. 

(3) Question of hygiene and harmfulness or harmlessness 
of aluminum vessels. 

The final result of these tests and trials amount to this : That 
neither from a practical nor from an economical point of view 
essential arguments against the feasibility of using aluminum field 
flasks exist, and that from a sanitary standpoint such flasks can be 
utilized without the least hesitation. 

* ■■.■- •:■ ;;: :;: :!; ^: * * 

Regarding the rough practical usefulness, the question arises 
wiiether or not the taste of the fluid contained in the aluminum 
flask is in any way changed. This is not the case. Neither water, 
nor coffee, nor water mixed with vinegar; Ijeer. wine, brandy (cog- 
nac) and other spirituous liquors, lemonade, etc.. show a change 
in taste, particularly no after-taste of aluminum, even after the con- 
tents had remained in the flask for a week. 

Although a change in the taste of the contents of a properly 
cleaned aluminum flask does not occur, there arc some liquids which 
appear to be unsuited to be kept for any length of time in such 
flasks. They become cloudy or muddy and cause the formation of 
spots or stains. Among them are, as practical tests in the army have 
demonstrated, brandy (cognac) which, after only twenty-four 
hours' preservation in the flask, particularly in a warm temperature, 
caused the formation of peculiar dark brown spots or stains on the 
inside of the flask. 

In order to determine the nature of the spots, tests were made 
Avith various liquors, i. e., three kinds of cognac, two kinds of 
Xordhauser (corn whisky), herb liquor, Dantzig Goldwater and 
Kuemmel. 

These experiments pro\c-tl that aluminum flasks are not adapted 
for a lengthy preservation of such liquids as cognac, etc., wliich, 



HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. I59 

although not losing particularly in taste, lose their appetizing quali- 
ties by becoming clouded, the discoloration being caused by loosen- 
ing of the stains from the flask and mixing with the liquor. 

This, however, hardly impairs the practical usefulness of the 
aluminum flask for the army. A soldier generally carries coffee or 
water in his flask, not liquor, the latter being, particularly on 
marches, at least in the infantry, expressly prohibited. 

Of other liquids carried in the flask, coffee, the standard drink 
of the marching soldier, should be considered ; but the stains created 
by it (amounting to the size of a pin head after 24 hours) are 
so inconsiderable that all practical objection will disappear when it 
is considered that the coffee, which in itself is not entirely clear, 
does not losc its taste and is generally kept in the flask for a much 
shorter period. 

Another kind of stains of whitish color in aluminum field flasks 
must be considered. They are caused by leaving water standing 
quiet in an aluminum vessel for any length of time. 

Although the resistance of the metal to the action of the water, — 
and especially of distilled water, — is undoubted, yet weak solutions of 
salt, which are contained in most of our drinking waters, bring 
about the above mentioned phenomenon, after the water has 
remained in the vessels for hours. 

These stains resemble the brandy stains to a great extent, but 
are of a lighter color, being yellowish-white, and feel firm and 
sandy, while the cognac stains are of an even, loose or spongy 
nature. 

Those whitish stains also appear much sknver, generallv not 
after several davs. 



So far as the question of economy is concerned, it is to be em- 
phasized that the aluminum field flasks during these many and 
varied tests and experiments, continued for months, including their 
being placed in incubators and shaking apparatus (the latter imi- 
tating the movement of a marching soldier), have shown them- 
selves as very durable and strong, and that a leakage has never 
occurred. Whether, in this respect, they will satisfy the demands 
of field service, can only be demonstrated by practical carrying tests. 
As the softness of the metal facilitates a possibility of damage 
to the flask, it is a matter of importance that lately a number of 
sure methods of soldering aluminum have i)ccn found, which process, 
as is well known, was not quite successful at first." 



l60 HISTORY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

The Patten Paint Company, Milwaukee, Wis., (see p. 104), 
writes: "We have come to a point now where we desire to get hold 
of the canteen itself made of wood and will ask you to inform us 
whether you know of such a canteen already made up. If not, we 
shall be obliged to have a few made by some wood working com- 
pany, as we are now ready to give the paint a test on the canteen 
as it will be used in service." 

The Griswold Manufacturing Company. Erie, Pa., (see pp. 
48-9), writes as follows: "In reply to yours in regard to the can- 
teen, would say, we had to make several changes in our pattern, 
which delayed us in getting out the sample. We have this all fin- 
ished, so we will be able to make castings to-day or to-morrow, and 
expect to be able to send you sample for your test the very first of 
next week. We trust this will not be too late, and that you will 
hold your tests open so you can include our sample in the same. 
We know we can be successful in making a cast canteen all in one 
piece, which would certainly be much stronger than the sheet alum- 
inum one, and there will be no rivets projecting through, which are 
weak points, as it soon corrodes around the rivets. We shall cast 
a lug on the outside on which to fasten the ring for the strap. 
Trusting you can, therefore, hold the tests open, and assuring you 
we will send sample in a very few days, we remain." etc. 



Plormann, Schutte & Co.. Importers and General Commission 
Merchants, 24 and 26 W. 4th St., New York, write as follows: 

"One of our friends called our attention to your article in the 
Ahuninum World of March, 1901. We understand from this that 
you take great interest in aluminum articles, especially canteens for 
the U. S. Army, and as we represent the largest manufacturer in 
the world who makes a specialty of aluminum canteens and cook- 
ing utensils for military purposes, having supplied all the European 
armies and still supplying them with all they need in this line, we 
are sure we could give you some valuable information and success- 
fully compete with any manufacturer in this line of goods. We 
would be only too pleased to furnish vou with samples which you 
might test and also with lowest quotations, if you will have the 
kindness to inform us what you may need to make your test, and 
also give you any other information which might possibly interest 
you and which we are in a position to furnish." * " * 

The above mentioned firm — Messrs. Hormann, Schutte & Co. — 
again write : — "We confirm our previous letter and have taken the 



HISTORY OF THE MtLITARY CANTEEN. l6l 

liberty of sending you a sani])lc ()t an aluminum canlten, which wo 
just this moment received from our manufacturer. 

"Tliis canteen has been ch-a\vn and pressed out of one .soHd i)ieec 
of pure akiminum plate, 99 per cent pure aluminum. 

"The mouthpiece consists of two pressed parts to give strength 
to the neck. 

"In case that this canteen should, in your opinion, not have resist- 
ance enough, it is easy for tlie manufacturer to make them out of a 
heavier plate with a thicker wall. 

"The size, shape, etc., the manufacturer would lie willing to make 
absolutely in accordance with your instructions. 

"Kindly test this canteen thoroughly and see whether the same 
would come in every respect up to your expectation and answer your 
purpose thoroughly. 

"We would be much oi)lieed to hear from vou." 



Messrs. Herm. Weissenburger & Co., Cannstatt a. Xecker 
write as follows : — "We thank you for your kind favor of loth 
instant, but not seeing our way to compete successfully with the 
U. S. manufacturers on account of heavy duty, we have decided to 
keep back, although the order would suit us very well. 

"We have invented a new helmet, a combination of Aluminum, 
leather and Pegamoid, light and rigid, perhaps with this article, 
which we can protect in the U. S., we shall have better luck. We 
shall send yoi; a sample later." 



The Griswold Manufacturing Company, Erie, Pa., (see also pre- 
ceding pages 48-9 and 87), write again: — "We are shipping you by 
American Express today, prepaid, sample of cast Aluminum flask. 
We are sending you this flask without any cork, as we w^erc in a 
great hurry to ship it to you. Did not have time to make the metal 
trimmings and chain that you w'ould require on the cork. These 
small details \ye can easily fix any requirements you would want. 

"This flask was tested with water pressure of 50 pounds to the 
square inch. It stood the test all right, except we bent out the flat 
side slightly. Would say, this flat side is a little thinner than the 
other. 

"This flask was cast from just a wooden pattern and wood core 
l)Ox. It is difficult to hold the core exactly true. If we should 
make them we would use metal patterns and core boxes, and fit 
up so they would come exact even thickness, and we hope then to 
get them a trifle lighter. 



l62 IIISTUKV OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. 

"Of course, we understand the tiasks would have to be furnished 
with felt or cloth covering, we presume also the chains and straps, 
but cur idea in sending you this l^are sample is to get your opinion 
whether a cast flask is practical, and if there would be any chance 
of it being adopted. If so, we stand ready to go ahead at once and 
get up a more perfect sample, equipped with all details, coverings, etc. 

"This flask, of course, is heavier than one made of sheet alumi- 
num, and we did not know but the weight would be against it. On 
the other hand, it is a good deal stronger, and there are no rivets 
through the same where the chains are fastened on, which is a very 
weak point on a sheet aluminum flask, as the water will immediately 
begin to corrode around the rivet heads. 

"Also, there are no joints or soldered places in the flask. We 
trust this will reach you in time for you to include it in your report, 
and we await with interest your reply. 

"We stand ready to make any changes, and to furnish you -with 
completely fitted up sample, as you may request. 

"We also believe this flask is a little larger than the regulation 
requirements." 



The Indian /Aluminum Company, Limited, Madras, British In- 
dia, (see page 'jy), writes again as follows: — "Since the dispatch of 
cur letter of the 21st ultimo, we have received the copy of the 
Aluminum World for March and have read with much interest your 
letter, wherein we note that the articles submitted to you for test 
are experimented with until they are practically destroyed. We 
cannot claim that our water bottles are indestructible, but we cor- 
dially invite the severest test and we feel sure that in the matter of 
strength and durability our goods will compare most favorably 
with those manufactured anywhere else. We also note your sugges- 
tion that naked flasks should not be sent to you, but here we would 
point out that any covering that we could put on them would have 
to be imported by us, and this would materially add to the cost, 
whereas should you decide to place an order with us we have no 
doubt that some firm in America would undertake the cover with 
material to be approved of by you. As it has occurred to us that the 
sample we sent you was rather small, we are now sending you a 
second bottle, to contain three pints." 



The real way to find out the merits of a canteen is to carry it 
and depend upon it for the fluids that you drink. 

The man who carries the canteen is usually indft'erent as to its 



HISTORY OF THE MH.ITARV CANTKEN. 163 

material or construction and ignorant as to its theories, principles, 
or components. He is a judge of results, though, just as a marks- 
man knows what the effectiveness of his rifle is. when he has become 
accustomed to the practical use of the firearm. The average man is 
more interested in what the canteen does than in what it is. He 
has no reliable means of proving what it is, but he needs no advice 
to tell him what it does. He makes no experiments or comparative 
tests ; he has no opportunity to do so. He accepts the canteen issued 
to him as the best type and product of its class. He knows that 
water from the Regulation Canteen may be usable without being 
relishable or palatable. If given a chance to test the Regulation 
Canteen with the Lanz Canteen, it is believed the veteran would 
pronounce the latter a success. Until the arc-electric or incandes- 
cent electric lights came we never knew what flying animals were 
in the air, but we then found myriads of strange bugs immolated 
l)eneath the lights. Just as illuminating gas was superseded by the 
electric light, an improvement is demanded in the shape, construc- 
tion and material of the Regulation Canteen. 

There are two ways in v/hich to fully and impartially consider 
the merits of any article of equipment intended for a soldier's use. 

One preliminary way is to master in a workmanlike wise the 
practical details of its materials, construction, and principles in- 
volved. 

The other way is to assume in postulatory kind of wise that 
certain results will follow a certain theory or conception. 

But these reasoning processes or conclusions are sometimes 
proved untenable, or erroneous, by practical demonstrations. When 
these presumed conclusions are upset by the results of practical 
test, experiment or trial, the winner is entitled to the benefit. In 
these canteen tests something more than tentative methods have 
been practised. Every canteen has been placed on trial, and judg- 
ment and recommendations succeeded, not preceded, the trial. The 
conclusion is that the Lanz method is the best type for the military 
service. An opinion to the contrary expressed by any one who 
has not practically and thoroughly tested all of the devices, but 
entrenches himself behind an opinion as a fortress, is not entitled to 
weight. 

Human labor cannot supply what nature has denied, but can 
simulate it. A good canteen is a necessity for which a soldier in 
the field would williiigly exchange such luxuries in life as clothing, 
tobacco and solid food — particularly if he is a Inmter who has 



164 TTrSTORY OF THF. MIF.ITARV CANTEEN. 

(hank frtun cool s[)riiig.s of icy waKr hidden a\\a\ in dark rit'\ ices 
in sj^ladcs where shadows arc nc\'cr l^rokcn l)y the sun. 

I'hc ways in which the Regulation Canteen nia} he made the 
vehicle for the transportation of an impure water supply are shown, 
in part, in the quoted letter from Mr. Joseph A. Steinmetz. 

Outhreaks of malarial fever have followed the use of impure 
water. The Regulation Canteen aids to spread infection, because, 
as a water carrier, it can carr\' the germs of fever, and because of 
the practical impossibility of sterilizing its contents by the soldier in 
the field. 

The sul)slilution of a canteen differing in material, construction 
and shape, would ])artly obviate these dangers. 

The Patton Paint Company, Milwaukee, Wis., (.see ]>. 104), 
writes again as follows: — "Canteens of wood, if they can l)e 
rendered al)So]utely imi)er\ious to water and so treated that they 
will give no taste to licpiids which they hold, will be found more 
satisfactory than canteens made of metal or of any composition 
which would be practicable for service. 

''We are conducting a series of experiments which lead us to be- 
lieve that we have found a process of treating wood in sucli a way 
that a canteen turned out of a solid block can be coated on the inside 
with our special preservative paint and will resist the action of water, 
tea and coffee, giving no taste, and holding at an equable tem])era- 
ture any liquid which a soldier would l)e using in active service. 

"These experiments, wliile they convince us of the possibility of 
fulfilling all the conditions to be met in actual use, will need some 
six months longer to enable us to guarantee the jjermanenc}- of re- 
sults which must be obtained if we are to l)ack our statements with 
the reputation of the Patton Paint Comj)any. 

"The advantages of wood for holding water are ol)\ ions. Wood 
is among the best non-conductors of heat. It is stiff and hard, hav- 
ing considerable strength for resisting strains, blows and jars, with 
sufficient elasticity to resume its shape after undergoing almost cMiy 
treatment but that of being crushed or broken. 

"In tropical climates wood canteens will be found to kee]) the 
water and other ]:)Ota1)lc lifpiids at a lower temperature for a longer 
time than tin. iron, or anv other metal fwlietlier enameled cr other- 
wise). 

"In resistance to cold, wood has equally high efficiency. It will 
withstand the freezing temperature better thrm :\uv other substance 
nf which canteens coidd be made. 

"The (jnly objection to the use of wood f( ir making canteens is 



iiisToRV oT' riii: M ii.i'iAKV caxt1':en. 165 

dial il is ali'rctcd In llu- iKjiiids thai n c^mlaitis. All li(|ui(l> c<uUaiii- 
iiii;- water ])eTnicate tlir \n>vvs ni naliiral \vi ind and under this inlln- 
ence the tihers ra])idly nndergo deterioration. The wuad decom- 
poses slightly if it has no chance to dry ont and soon begins to 
taste ( f organic matter. After continued use, unless it is frequently 
washed and sterilized, the taste of the liquid contained becomes so 
unpalatable and the odor so mibearablc that the wooden vessel must 
be discarded. 

"In tbe special paint which we are making for covering the inside 
of wood canteens we claim that we have obviated all tbe difficulties 
which could be urged against tbe making of canteens from wood, 
and that we have retained all the advantages of the wood canteen 
and also tbose of an iron canteen which is enameled. 

"The wood with changes of temperature will not expand and 
contract as iron does, to tbe extent of chipping and cracking tbe 
coating. 

"In other respects tbe wood canteen, with inside coating of our 
enamel paint specially prepared for this purpose, will answer all the 
requirements of an enameled metal canteen and will at tbe same 
time preserve all the advantages of tbe old-time wooden vessel. 

"Tbis paint will be found to be absolutely impervious to water. 
Tea and coffee will not affect it, and liquids used in it will not taste 
as they would of an ordinary paint. A beverage containing a small 
amount of alcohol will do it no barm. Tbe paint will stand any 
temperature from 150 degrees F. to far below the freezing point. 
The paint which we have recommended for this purpose we have 
carefully prepared to withstand any possible changes to which a 
canteen would be subject in the army service, from Arctic to tropical 
climates. 

"Hot tea and coffee could be poured into this canteen and would 
not affect it adversely unless kept for a long time at a temperature 
exceeding 150 degrees. 

"In fact, where a soldier can stand the exposure, either to heat 
or cold, this canteen can be used, we believe, with perfect satisfac- 
tion. 

"We shall be glad, if this matter is taken up in future, to submit 
to vou the results of our experiments in this line, and shall hope to 
see the wooden canteen adopted in the United States Army." 

Mr. E. Dederick, of 2016 Cherry St., Milwaukee, Wis., writes : — 
"T read in the MUzmukec Sentinel that you are trying to arrange 
for a preparation for lining the inside of a wooden canteen. I have 
a preparation which when applied either to wood or iron forms a 



i66 HISTORY OK riii: military canteen. 

coating like stone; this can he made any color except white; its 
natural color is slate. 1 have it in refrigerator boxes, where it has 
been used for the last seven years and is as good now as when 
first put on. It can be used for a great many things : covering for 
refrigerator pipes, to keep them from corroding ; lining between 
double floors to keep them from leaking; also on vats that are liable 
to leak a coating of this does the business. 

"If this should interest you, if you write me I will send you some 
samples on wood and iron and you can test them." 

The Patton Paint Company, of Milwaukee, Wis., writes again 
as follows : — "The basis of my argument in favor of the paint which 
we recommend for wood canteens rests upon the fact that the paint 
is applied to wood rather than to any metal surface. If the same 
paint were applied to metal, it would act in much the same way as 
enameled metal-ware acts. It would chip, crack and scale with the 
expansion and shrinkage of tlie metallic surface upon which the 
enamel is baked. 

"The great weakness of all enameled metal-ware is the fact that 
the enamel is applied to a substance which has a much larger co- 
efificiency of expansion than a substance which, like wood, is com- 
posed of fibers brought together and amalgamated under the law of 
growth and which has therefore intercellular spaces which take up 
the larger portion of motion that would ensue upon expansion of the 
fibers and therefore expand, when they do so. more slowly than the 
metal, which, from its lack of intercellular spaces, must at once yield 
to the force acting upon it in either enlarging or reducing the 
molecular orbit. 

"The immediate result of the chipping and cracking of the en- 
amel is that the licjuid is admitted to immediate action upon the 
metal, which oxidizes and permits still further disintegration of the 
enamel, which in this way starts the process of undermining the 
enamel covering, so that chips are set free and small and large 
quantities are allowed to escape wMth the water, to be swallowed by 
the soldier. 

"Serious trouble could arise in the way of poisonmg if the enamel 
were composed, as is frequently the case, of white lead, which is 
more or less soluble, and which might easily affect the soldier, inde- 
pendent of the swallowing of small particles or chips loosened from 
the enamel covering. ^ 

"The excessive weight of enameled metal as compared w ith can- 
teens made from wood, ahnninuni or tin, does not come so much from 



JtrSTuRY OF THE MILITARY CANTEEN. i67 

Ihc- enanid itself, as fmn, the we.glit ,.| ilu. u.clal iipun winch ,t ,s 
super-imposed." 

I am indehled to the Western ladt Works, 787 to 797 Sotith 
Lanal St., Chicago, Ills., for the formula and the process methods 
of a test for determining the amount of wool in felt, or anv wool 
or part wool, fabric. 

It should be known to every inspector of covered canteen flasks 
or of woolen clothing or material furnished for the use of the com- 
batant land or naval forces of the United States. 

In courtesy to the company the test cannot here be given 
Sponge belongs to the vegetable kingdom. Mixed with an ani- 
mal product— wool— the resultant compound— sponge-felt— mav be 
open to some objections; perhaps resembling those found prac- 
tically, by the French navy when cellulose, composed of the ground 
fibre of the cocoanut, was tried, in compressed form— briquettes— 
to close the openings made and prevent the inflow of water even 
if penetrated bv projectiles-the protection of buovancv method 
so called. 

As sponge grows in the water, and is used wet, it is at its best 
when wet; should be offered for sale wet. Sponges, when drv are 
hard, rough and easily torn ; when wet, sponges are much less easily 
torn. The difference between sponge and fish-glue and gelatine 
m dried and soaked state applies to sponges. 

The strongest sponge is easily torn by pulling across the grain 
Ihe fair test is with the grain— everything has a grain. Wooden 
columns support buildings when placed with, or along, the grain but 
wood across the grain can easily be broken. 

"W^E'VE DRUXK FROM THE SAME CANTEEN.'" 

BY MILES O'REILLY. 

There are bonds of all sorts in this world of ours : 
Fetters of friendship, and ties of flowers. 

And true lovers' knots, I ween. 
The boy and the girl are bound by a kiss. 
But there's never a bond, old friend, like this. 

We have drunk from the same canteen. 

CHORUS, 

The same canteen, my soldier friend, 

The same .canteen ; 
There's never a bond, old friend, like this. 

We have drunk from the same canteen. 



l68 IIISTORV OF -JIIE ^IILIT.\R^■ (AXTEEX. 

1 1 was sonietimes waUT. ami suiiicliines ^lilJ^, 
Sumclimcs a])])lc-jack. lim- as silk : 

iJnt \vhalL'\cr the tipple has hccii. 
We shared it together in bane or bliss. 
And I warm to you, friend, when I think of this, 

We have drunk from the same canteen. 

The rich and the great sit down to dine. 
And quaff to each other in sparkling wine. 

From glasses of crystal and green : 
Out T guess in their golden potations they miss 
The warmth of regard to be found in this. 

We have dnuik from the same canteen. 

We've shared our blankets and tent together, 
And marched, and fought, in all kinds of \A'cather. 

And hungry, and full, we've been. 
Had days of battle, and days of rest. 
P.ut this mem'ry I cling to. and love the best. 

\\'e have cirunk from the same canteen. 

I'or when wounded I lay on the outer slope, 
With my blood flowing fast, and with little hope. 

On which my faint spirit might lean. 
Oh, then I remember, you crawl'd to my side. 
And bleeding so fast, it seemed both must have died. 

We drunk from the same canteen. 



Upon the recommendation of the Inspector General, U. S. 
Arm\'. the publication of the foregoing report was authorized b\- 
tlie Honorable, the Secretary of War, under date of 27th April, iqot. 



Lieut. -Colonel &: Inspector General, U. S. \ 
(Major 4th U. S. Infantry), 
Inspector General. Dept. Dakota. 









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